SportBikes Inc MagazineAugust 2022

FEATURES

THE PRESS ROOM:

YAMAHA MT-10 FIRST RIDE REVIEW

INDIAN PURSUIT LIMITED RIDE REVIEW

THE ISLE OF MAN TT

STAFF

PUBLISHER//EDITOR IN CHIEF: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com

EDITORIAL

STAFF WRITERS : B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Peter Jackson pj@sportbikesincmag.com

COPY EDITOR: Stacey Lane stacey@sportbikesincmag.com

CONTRIBUTOR Rennie Scaysbrook

ART & DESIGN

CREATIVE DIRECTOR//LAYOUT//DESIGN: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com

CREATIVE SUPERVISOR: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY:

Kevin Wing

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Kevin Wing

Brian J Nelson

Joseph Agustin

SportBikes Inc Magazine - August 2022 Volume 12, Issue 11

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BMW G 310 RR – FIRST LOOK INDUSTRY NEWS

BMW has been teasing an entry-level sportbike to rival the likes of KTM’s RC 390 and Kawasaki Ninja 400 for what feels like an age, and it’s finally come good on that promise by releasing the 2023 G 310 RR and G 310 RR Style Sport in India.

This is the third fruit in the partnership between BMW subsidiary TVS Motors out of India after the G 310 GS ADV machine and the G 310 R naked bike, and cannibalizes the TVS Apache RR 310 very heavily in its construction.

In fact, it’s essentially the same machine as the Apache, just with the red, white and blue paint scheme for the Style Sport variant traditionally used with the high-end BMW Motorrad sports machines like the S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR. The base model G 310 RR will get a Black Storm Metallic paint job.

The G 310 RR’s 312cc single-cylinder four-stroke pumps out a claimed 34 hp and 20 lb-ft of torque via a six-speed gearbox. This puts it a fair way down on the only other single-cylinder sportbike in the category in the KTM RC 390, which pumps out a claimed 43 hp.

This being the case, don’t expect the BMW to go fighting for wins in the MotoAmerica Junior Cup when the machine eventually makes it to America, the date of which has not been confirmed by BMW North America.

As for the chassis, the G 310 RR uses a tubular steel trellis design with unadjustable inverted forks and a shock that mounts directly to the swingarm. In the cockpit, the rider gets a five-inch Bluetooth TFT dash, ride-by-wire throttle, two-channel ABS and Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

The G 310 RR is currently only available in India, not even in Europe, and that market will doubtless get the model before we do in North America. ROOM

THE LONG-AWAITED ENTRY-LEVEL BMW SPORTBIKE, THE BMW G 310 RR HAS BROKEN COVER, JUST NOT IN AMERICA.

ARC VEHICLE TASKS JAMES ELLISON FOR ON-TRACK SHAKEDOWN OF THE VECTOR

FORMER MOTOGP RIDER, JAMES ELLISON PUTS THE INNOVATIVE ARC VEHICLE VECTOR ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE THROUGH ITS PACES BEFORE PRODUCTION.

James Ellison recently teamed up with Arc Vehicle to fine-tune the handling and suspension of the Vector electric motorcycle. Ellison spent two days on track dialing in the Vector's carbon front swing arm and hub center steering setup, as well as overall performance. The note here is that the bike handles as though it was using a traditional front fork set up but is benefitting from the 20-degree rake angle, allowing for steeper steering angles.

“The way the machine carves up corners is incredible. Vector is definitely big on grin factor, it’s just so different to anything you will ride. I’ve been really surprised

by the agility, the bike changes direction like a much smaller bike due to the steep steering angle it can run. This means the bike can be flicked from side to side with little effort.” - James Ellison.

“It is incredibly important that the Vector handles impeccably. We developed the Vector’s unique front suspension and steering configuration to surpass the agility and dynamics of off-the-shelf front forks. To ensure we get every last drop of performance out of the system we have enlisted the help of Ex-MotoGP rider James Ellison.” - Mark Truman, Founder and CEO.

Ellison and Truman were joined by a special suspension team from Ohlins to test a varying range of setups for the Arc Vehicle Vector for both road and race applications.

THE ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS

LIVEWIRE DEL MAR S2 FIRST EDITION – FIRST LOOK

LIVEWIRE’S SECOND MODEL, THE LIVEWIRE DEL MAR S2 FIRST EDITION, BREAKS COVER IN A FLAT TRACK-INSPIRED DRESS.

In 2021, Harley-Davidson divorced itself from the LiveWire brand to make it its own company. But like alimony, Harley-Davidson is still paying the bills for LiveWire, and the fruits of those bills (and labor) have started to ripen with the 2023 LiveWire Del Mar S2 First Edition.

This is the second all-LiveWire — not Harley-Davidson — we’ve seen (the first being the original LiveWire from Harley that was renamed the LiveWire One). Details are a bit sketchy on the Del Mar S2 First Edition, but it will be limited to 100 examples, all of which will be delivered in the Spring of 2023 costing $17,699, and, all of them are sold.

But, if you must have a Del Mar S2, never fear, for there will be a second iteration/base model that will

debut after the First Editions are delivered, so expect sometime in the last quarter of 2023.

Both bikes share the same powertrain which LiveWire has dubbed the "ARROW architecture", a proprietary collection of the motorcycle’s battery, motor, charging and control system. The company is claiming 430 pounds, 80 horsepower (but torque has not been disclosed), and a projected 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds.

“The S2 Del Mar model represents the next step in the evolution of the LiveWire brand,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President, and CEO of Harley-Davidson.

“The ARROW architecture underpinning the Del Mar, developed in-house at LiveWire Labs, demonstrates our ambition to lead in the EV space and establish LiveWire as the most desirable electric motorcycle brand in the world.”

One of the big deals with any electric motorcycle is

the range and charge time. The latter has not been disclosed but the former is a claimed 100 miles of city riding, which means next to nothing as the range depends wildly on how you ride the bike, not just where you ride it.

Harley-Davidson, I mean, LiveWire, has covered their butts by also stating in the press release “Range estimates are based on expected performance on a fully-charged battery and are derived from SAE J2982 Riding Range Test Procedure data on a sample motorcycle under ideal laboratory conditions. Your actual range will vary depending on your personal riding habits, road and driving conditions, ambient weather, vehicle condition and maintenance, tire pressure, vehicle configuration (parts and accessories), and vehicle loading (cargo, rider and passenger weight).” We’ll know how far the real range is after we ride one, I guess.

There are four riding modes on the S2 and a custom map, so this will also affect not just power and torque

delivery characteristics but also the range.

The battery is a fully stressed member of the chassis and runs off Level 1 and Level 2 charging, but not the more common Level 3 charging that’s found for fast charging of cars.

Given its flat track style, it’s not surprising to see a single-disc, four-piston caliper Brembo brake set-up on the front end, although LiveWire has not disclosed the suspension specs.

The already sold-out Launch Edition will come in either Jasper Gray or Comet Indigo, and both paint schemes are applied by hand over the space of five days. No word on what the base model colors will be. LiveWire has stated this will be the first S2 with another two editions to follow in the near future. And there are also rumors of another full-size electric motorcycle joining the LiveWire One, but no confirmation has been made by the company.

DUCATI PANIGALE V4 RECEIVES ELECTRONIC UPDATES FOR 2023

THE 2023 DUCATI PANIGALE V4 RANGE BENEFITS FROM A SUITE OF ELECTRICAL UPGRADES TO BROADEN THE SCOPE FOR RIDERS OF ALL LEVELS.

Ducati is introducing significant updates in the electronics department for the 2023 Panigale V4, V4 S, and V4 SP2. The updated electronics package includes new Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO 2 software. This features gear by gear calibration on three selectable levels, maximizing engine brake intensity based on the load on the rear wheel. EBC EVO 2 provides a greater balance of engine brake engagement while reducing rear wheel lockup.

The 2023 Panigale V4 range also gets a new Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) strategy, making up and downshifts smoother at all levels of throttle engagement. When shifting at partial gas, the DQS retards the ignition

timing whereas it would curt the injection in prior model's systems. For wide open throttle shifts, the injection is still cut but with refined torque restitution.

Keeping things cool is the new fan system that improves operating temperature management and reduction of heat build that often occurs at the end of track sessions.

Both, the Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ride By Wire systems have been refined for the 2023 Panigale V4 line up, to improve traction control accuracy at lean angle and torque delivery management.

If you are a current owner of a 2022 Panigale V4 model, Ducati has made the 2023 electronic package upgrades available for your model year. Check in with your local Ducati dealership for details.

BMW G 310 R AND GS GET NEW COLORS FOR 2023

BMW ANNOUNCES NEW COLOR OPTIONS FOR THE 2023 G 310 R AND GS MODELS.

While there are no spec or equipment updates for the 2023 BMW G 310 R and the G 310 GS roadsters, enthusiasts will appreciate that there are new options for the 313 cc water-cooled, single-cylinder, fourstroke mini mights.

The base model BMW G 310 R (MSRP $4,995, starting) keeps its Cosmic Black color but the Style Passion Racing Red and Style Sport Polar White/Racing Red replace Style Passion Kyanite Blue Metallic and Style Sport Limestone Metallic, respectively.

Three all-new colors are available for the GS model (MSRP $5,695, starting), replacing the prior year's model colorways. The 2023 G 310 GS picks up Cosmic Black 3, Style Sport Polar White/Racing Red and Style Rallye Kalamata Dark Gold Metallic.

THE ROOM: INDUSTRY

MV AGUSTA RC RANGE – FIRST LOOK

MV AGUSTA TAKES THE COVERS OFF THEIR MV AGUSTA RC RANGE, REVEALING THREE RATHER SPECIAL RIDES FOR 2023.

The Italian Sultans of Style at MV Agusta have dipped into the steeze once more to bring you three new RC (Reparto Corse) editions for 2023. Resplendent in the company’s stunning red, white and green tri-color graphic, the MV Agusta F3 RR, Dragster and Turismo Veloce SCS RC versions represent a significant price hike over their base counterparts, with a few fancy details to boot.

In celebration of MV Agusta’s racing heritage and their participation in Moto2 with the Forward Racing Team and in the WorldSSP Championship, the RC editions will let everyone know which team you’re on. There will only ever be 200 F3 RR RC models worldwide created, while the Dragster RC SCS and Turismo Veloce RC SCS will get 300. At this stage, MV Agusta North America doesn’t know how many will be making their way here, but deliveries are expected by Christmas, 2022.

Starting off with the $28,498 F3 RR RC, the biggest change is the new Akrapovic racing titanium exhaust that saves an impressive 17 pounds over the stock system, helping boost power to a claimed 153 hp.

A new, 10 percent lighter cast aluminum rear wheel aids in the F3 RR’s agility, and there are sexy touches like the CNC-machine top tripleclamp, brake levers and footpegs.

The $26,398 Dragster RC SCS also gets a special exhaust in the form of an SC Project full titanium system and a clear clutch cover for the Rekluse clutch, on top of the tri-color paint and

red seat reserved for all RC models.

Finally, the $27,898 Turismo Veloce SCS RC only gets the paint job, no extra performance additions. However, being the RC model, MV has fitted the Rekluse clutch, which effectively does away with the need to use the clutch lever at all. You can stop and go without ever needing to touch the lever, and the up and down quickshifter ensures gear changes are also done clutch free.

Each machine will be numbered and delivered with a certificate of authenticity, and given MV Agusta’s penchant for limited edition/special models of late, one could reasonably expect the values of the F3 RR RC, Dragster RC SCS and Turismo RC SCS to soar in the coming years.

THE FIRST RIDE: 2022 YAMAHA MT-10

PERHAPS ONE OF the more genius motorcycle marketing campaigns of the past 20 years has been Yamaha’s Dark Side of Japan series, one that tapped into the dimly lit alleyways of Tokyo’s underground and revealed itself in a series of new motorcycles that have quite literally taken the industry by the balls. I’ve lost count of the number of MT-07 and MT-09 Yamahas I’ve seen over the proceeding decade (geez, it’s been that long already?), but I can count on two hands the number of MT-10 naked bikes I’ve seen since it came out, branded then as the FZ-10, back in 2016.

That’s an absolute tragedy because the FZ (renamed in 2018 to the MT) is one of motorcycling’s best-kept secrets, a machine for the rider who doesn’t need to spend untold amounts of cash and doesn’t get swept up in the horsepower war that’s swallowed up the hyper-naked class like me at In-N-Out on Sunday afternoon.

When Yamaha released the MT-10 in 2016, they did the mic drop and walked away for a whole six years. They had fair reason to: they’d nailed the first one, saw no need to improve it over the next half-decade, and so… they did nothing else with it.

Meanwhile, the Euros were firing new naked bikes like they were throwing ones in the club. BMW released a revamped S 1000 R, Aprilia bought a new Tuono V4, KTM upped their game with a new Super Duke, and Ducati bought out the bazooka and blew them all into 1989 with the Streetfighter V4 range.

Even Yamaha’s Japanese compatriots got in the act. Honda bought out a new CB1000R, and Kawasaki supercharged their naked and bought out the ZH2. Hell, even Suzuki — that’s right, Suzuki — managed to bring out something new (kinda) in the GSX-S1000.

It was time to do something, so this year, Yamaha unveiled a revamped MT-10 and later this year we’ll ride the similarly-reworked MT-10 SP with electronic gold springers from Sweden.

Let’s start with what hasn’t changed $13,999 MSRP MT-10: most of the bike. Hear me out, that’s not a bad thing. Remember the mic drop?

Yamaha didn’t need to revamp the motor, chassis or suspension per se, so they spent most of their development attention on the electronics and bodywork, creating slimmer, smoother lines for the headlight surround, new intakes, a redesigned, 10mm taller seat unit, slimmer tank, revised ergonomics with a new bar and peg position, and a new passenger seat.

The crossplane crank motor swiped from the R1S (remember that “detuned” R1 from a few years ago?) remains, so steel for the conrods and valves as opposed to titanium like on the R1. It does, however, get a silky smooth new quick shifter for clutchless up and downshifts, and this section is where most of the changes have been wrought.

The new MT gets the full house of electronics you’d expect on any modern superbike. You get four different power modes, level one being the most direct and level four for low grip/rain riding, four preset ECU modes (A-D), all with their own Traction, Slide, Wheelie, Engine Brake, and Brake Control values that are preset from the factory. But the cool part is you can change any mode, be it A, B, C or D to hold whatever values you want, giving you near infinite control over your ride. There’s also cruise control. That’s cool, too.

This is all due to the arrival of the six-axis IMU, again, from the R1, a fact that also allows the fitment of Cornering ABS.

The result is possibly the best value motorcycle on the market today if you’re after a big bore naked bike. The R1-derived motor is never in doubt as there’s performance at nearly every rev range above 3000 rpm (below that number, the motor feels a little soft), and the slightly stiffly-sprung suspension makes for a

"The brakes are not fantastic as the master cylinder feels a littledated,but,thenagain,itisonly$13,999.Anaftermarket master cylinder will fix this problem, easy, and then you’ll be able to brake like Dovi on your next ride with your buddies..."

motorcycle that loves to get up into the mountains and get twisty.

The brakes are not fantastic as the master cylinder feels a little dated, but, then again, it is only $13,999. An aftermarket master cylinder will fix this problem, easy, and then you’ll be able to brake like Dovi on your next ride with your buddies.

The spread of performance is eye-opening with the MT. Those four modes give the bike four different personalities and I’ll admit to spending almost all the time in B mode unless I was pulling wheelies for the hell of it. A mode hits hard, too hard for my sedate traffic riding, and B mode felt a nice compromise. No need to go breaking lap records on the road, kids…

At this price, the 2022 Yamaha MT-10 already holds a chance of taking Bike of The Year honors. Yes, it lacks a little of the classic allure some of the Euros hold, but it is so much more affordable to own and run it more than makes up for it. And the sound of a crossplane crank Yamaha on the pipe is worth the admission ticket alone.

Life got you down? Perhaps you need to find a new Pursuit in life... the 2022 Indian Pursuit Limited, that is.

AH, THE JOYS of having nowhere to go and nothing to do. For those times, one might look to today’s test bike, the Indian Pursuit Limited, as a vehicle on which to attack what could be an ultraboring time and turn it into a pursuit of long days in the saddle with your significant other, and a bar at the ride’s end.

The $29,999 MSRP Indian Pursuit Limited and its $1000 more expensive Dark Horse edition is the Minneapolis outfit's latest big touring beast. Gaining much of its construction from 2020’s Indian Challenger, the Pursuit houses the acclaimed PowerPlus 108 c.i. (1768cc) water-cooled V-twin that pumps out a claimed 128 lb-ft of torque and 122 hp and the same aluminum backbone chassis, but its dress is something far more formal than the Challenger’s paired-back attire.

The Pursuit comes in with a six gallon tank of gas at a whopping 925 pounds and much of that extra girth is thanks to the expanse of 35 gallons of luggage capacity, the trunk/passenger backrest set-up and various bodywork upgrades.

Make no mistake, the Indian Pursuit Limited is one massive motorcycle. But as is so often the case now with full dress tourers from the Stars and Stripes, the ride is anything but intimidating.

"IT ALL COMBINES TO GIVE THE PURSUIT RIDER AN IDEAL MACHINE ON WHICH TO CHUG IN THOSE BIG MILES WITH NO PARTICULAR DESTINATION IN MIND..."

THE FIRST RIDE: INDIAN PURSUIT LIMITED

Plan your corners appropriately and the Pursuit with its 5.1 inches of front and 4.5 inches of rear wheel travel will glide through the corners in an almost stately fashion. With 31 degrees of ground clearance, you’ve got all you’ll need for the occasion but if you go pursuing too much sporty performance you’ll be reminded very quickly of the chassis’ limitations.

This is an opulent ride, shall we say. Our test bike was fitted with the $3000 optional Performance Package that came with electronically adjustable preload for the rear suspension, Smart Lean Technology (Indian’s Cornering ABS and dynamic traction control system mitigated by a Bosch six-axis IMU), integrated driving lights and heated rider and passenger seats.

The electronic suspension adjustment makes a substantial difference to the Pursuit’s road-holding capabilities. Jack the preload up on the shock and the Pursuit suddenly forgets about imparting the dreaded mid-corner wallow so familiar with bikes of this size. The chassis becomes taught and responds willingly to your inputs, so long as you know the limits of what you’re asking.

Indian has fitted its superb Ride Command suite of electronics via the seven-inch TFT dash. Apple CarPlay is there for those with iPhones but Android uses are not forgotten as Indian’s own dash set-up is easy to understand and adjust via the touch screen that works with gloves.

It all combines to give the Pursuit rider an ideal machine on which to chug in those big miles with no particular destination in mind. The ride is ultra-smooth, not just from the suspension but the motor and the rider’s seat, which maintains excellent comfort over a day’s cruise.

The water-cooled Pursuit Limited and its slightly pricier Dark Horse models have Harley-Davidson’s Road Glide firmly in its sight. And what better way to see this amazing country than behind the ’bars of an American V-twin?

THE PRESS ROOM

GASGAS FACTORY RACING TEAM GRID NEWS

TECH3 AND GASGAS ARE JOINING FORCES TO FORM THE GASGAS FACTORY RACING TEAM FOR THE 2023 MOTOGP SEASON.

GASGAS is teaming up with Tech3 to put another red bike on the MotoGP grid beginning in 2023, and no it's not a Ducati. Their steed is the KTM RC16 in crimson red and is slated to be piloted by none other than Pol Esparago.

GASGAS is no stranger to the grid with a presence on the Moto2 and Moto3 grids thanks to the success of the GASGAS Aspar teams.

The GASGAS Factory Racing Team machine evokes serious emotions with its distinctive and straight-to-the-point red and white livery. It looks every bit of the business. And while the second rider of the two man team has yet to be announced, the booking of the 31 year old Esparago is a

strategic move to "bring their young, fresh and passionate vibe to the highest stage..."

“If you remember well, a few years ago, there was a young man, a Moto2 World Champion, that joined the MotoGP class with Tech3. His name is Pol Espargaro. We had a great few years together when we started, we discovered the MotoGP class together, and I have always said that Pol is a real fighter, Pol was a key player in the Pierer Mobility KTM MotoGP programme, and I’m delighted to announce he is back in the family. We can’t wait to start working with him, and I think he will be a perfect ambassador for the GASGAS brand. So, this is like a fairytale; welcome back, Pol. This is also to Stefan, Hubert, and Pit to say more than me, but anyway, I’m over the moon and I think this GASGAS MotoGP project couldn’t start better than with Pol. So, this is fantastic news and I just can’t wait to be in November.” - Herve Poncharal, GASGAS Team Manager.

MOTOGP 2023 SEASON OPENER ANNOUNCED

THE 2023 FIM MOTOGP WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON OPENER WILL KICK OFF IN PORTUGAL AT THE AUTODROMO INTERNACIONAL DO ALGARVE.

The FIM has announced that the 2023 MotoGP season opener will not be in Qatar, but instead in Portugal at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve. While the rest of the season's itinerary has yet to be released, the first round of the 2023 season is set for March 24 through March 26.

2023 will mark the first time, since 2006, that the MotoGP season opener will commence on European soil and the first time that the Portimão Circuit. It is only the third that Europe has hosted the season opener in over thirty years.

Prior to the 2023 season opener, the circuit will host pre-season testing. Confirmation of dates and the rest of the provisional 2023 MotoGP calendar will be released soon.

MOTOGP SPRINT 2023

BEGINNING IN 2023, SPRINT RACES WILL BE PART OF THE MOTOGP EVENT WEEKEND.

Dorna has announced a new attraction for the race weekend that will commence at the beginning of the 2023 season: sprint races. From the looks of it, the addition of the MotoGP sprint races was hugely inspired by and for the race fans.

Here's how it works… The MotoGP sprint races will take place on the Saturday afternoon of each round. The sprint race duration will be half the full race distance, with a 15-minute grid procedure and all of the same race rules as a full race.

The Saturday schedule will start with one 30-minute free practice session, followed by Q1 and Q2 for qualifying. The Sprint Race will be the finale of on track action for the day.

Points will be awarded to the top nine race finishers. First place will be awarded 12 points and the ninth place finisher will earn a total of one point. The points earned from MotoGP sprint races do not count toward the season's championship points nor will they affect but will add a line of data to each rider's profile. Points smoints! The races are going to be just fun and exciting to watch!

THE ROOM: GRID NEWS

ANDREA DOVIZIOSO ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

THE 2004 125CC WORLD CHAMPION ANDREA DOVIZIOSO HAS ANNOUNCED THAT HE WILL RETIRE AFTER THE SAN MARINO GRAND PRIX.

Over his career, Andrea Dovizioso has won 24 grand races, placed second in the championship three times and most notably, won the 125cc class championship in 2004.

Currently racing with the WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP Team, Dovizioso has only secured a total of 10 points after 11 rounds in the 2022 season. A difficult year, to say the least. And with that, Andrea Dovizioso has announced that he will be hanging up his leathers at the completion of his home round, the San Marino GP at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.

WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP Team test rider, Cal Crutchlow will step in for riding duties to close out the remaining six races of the 2022 season.

“I want to start by saying that, of course, we are all sad that Andrea will be leaving the sport earlier than expected. He is a big name in MotoGP, and he will be missed in the paddock.

“We considered ourselves very lucky last year that he was available and willing to join our MotoGP programme when Franky switched to the Yamaha Factory Team thus creating the need for a replacement rider for the remainder of the 2021 season. Andrea‘s great expertise, experience, and methodical nature were of great interest to Yamaha and the RNF team and the project was fixed to include the full 2022 season.

“Unfortunately, Andrea has struggled to extract the maximum potential out of the M1 and thus the results have not been forthcoming, which has created understandable frustration for Andrea. Finally during the summer break, he confirmed to us his desire to retire before the end of the season.

“After mutual discussions it was deemed appropriate for Andrea to ride his final race in Misano at his home GP. Naturally, Yamaha will continue to give ’Dovi‘ their

full support over the next three races. In the meantime, let‘s enjoy his last three GPs and celebrate in Misano the end of a spectacular career.” - Lin Jarvis, Managing Director Yamaha Motor Racing.

“As we return to the paddock after a five week’s break, we were looking forward to work on turning things around for Andrea especially after some positive findings in the last two races. Nevertheless, he has made his decision to retire and we respect that. Indeed, we are sad to see a great and experienced rider like Andrea leaving the championship and not ending the season with us.

“But we understand, he has been clear of his struggle to be comfortable with the bike and to suit his riding style to the way the bike needs to be ridden. Though we did not manage to reach the desired results together, we are still honoured and pleased to have a big name like Andrea in our team. We would like to thank Andrea for his support, expertise and contribution and we will continue to give him the full support for the remainder of the three races.” - Razlan Razali, Founder and Team Principal WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP Team.

“Of course, this announcement and early retirement from Andrea is not really what we wanted as a team but also understandable from Andrea’s side as he clearly expected much more from his return than what he was able to do. We tried to stay behind him as much as possible in all areas all the way, but finally he decided himself to stop after the Misano GP and of course looking to complete his career.

“Anyway, we have to accept his decision because this is clearly something that a rider needs to do. We can say whatever we want, but we can only appreciate his honesty and also his decision. We will do anything to keep pushing and getting results for the team.”Wilco Zeelenberg, Team Manager WithU Yamaha RNF MotoGP Team.

“I thank Lin for his words, I totally agree with them. In 2012, the experience with the Iwata manufacturer in MotoGP had been very positive for me and since then

I have always thought that, sooner or later, I would have liked to have an official contract with Yamaha. This possibility presented itself, actually in a somewhat daring way, during 2021. I decided to give it a try because I strongly believed in this project and in the possibility of doing well.

“Unfortunately, in recent years the MotoGP has changed profoundly. The situation is very different since then: I have never felt comfortable with the bike, and I have not been able to make the most of its potential despite the precious and continuous help from the team and the whole of Yamaha. The results were negative, but beyond that, I still consider it a very important life experience. When there are so many difficulties, you need to have the ability to manage the situation and your emotions well.

“We did not reach the desired objectives, but the consultations with the Yamaha technicians and with those of my team have always been positive and constructive, both for them and for me. The relationship remained loyal and professionally interesting even in the most critical moments: it was not so obvious that that would happen.

“For all this and for their support, I thank Yamaha, my team and WithU, and the other sponsors involved in the project. It didn't go as we hoped, but it was right to try. My adventure will end in Misano, but the relationship with all the people involved in this challenge will remain intact forever. Thank you all.”Andrea Dovizioso.

MOTOGP 2023

PRE-SEASON TEST DATES

AHEAD OF ANNOUNCING THE PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE FOR THE 2023 SEASON, THE PRE-SEASON TEST DATES HAVE BEEN SCHEDULED.

Three 2023 pre-season test dates for the premier MotoGP class, as well as dates for the Moto2 and Moto3 class have been scheduled.

The first pre-season test will commence at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia, February 5 through 7. This is a "shakedown"

test, reserved for the MotoGP factory test riders and class rookies only.

The second test will follow, held over three days, February 10 through 12, also at the Sepang International Circuit.

The third pre-season test session, on March 11 and 12, will be held at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portimão, Portugal. This circuit will also host the Moto2 and Moto3 pre-season tests, March 17 through 19.

“Great This is the to all my - M.A. love the Plus, the pegs have great didn’t my - G.A.

“Hindle is by far the best value in the exhaust market... light weight and great performance at a price that simply can’t be beat. These pipes win races and set track records.” - J.F. o cial choice of multi-time WERA endurance of

Don’t your track day or race!

THERE ARE A few times in your life when you really, really, need to pay attention. Ordering your morning coffee isn’t really one, nor is stacking a dishwasher or vacuuming your car. On the other hand, charging into Ballagarey’s near top-speed, concrete-lined right hander at the Isle of Man TT with your motorcycle screaming its lungs out certainly is.

The lead up to Ballagarey is easy enough. Get through Union Mills and hold it wide open up the Ballahutchin straight, nail the right hand kink and rip first down and then sharply up the hill, with Ballagarey encroaching your vision like an enemy in the trenches. Down one gear, revs way up high, spot the early apex curb on your right and back to full noise. If you get it right, you’ll be greeted with cute a little wheelie while still semi-cranked over, the crowd wailing applause as you grab sixth gear and bolt off to Crosby.

Get it wrong, and it’ll likely be your last ever mistake.

This is the conundrum of the Isle of Man TT. The most famous, treacherous race in the world. It is both terrific and terrible in equal measure. It has been my racing life’s mission to see the start line before I call time on my career. The year 2022 finally marked that point, and thanks to a myriad of sponsors, not least of which was SBI Editor, Allan Lane, and his coffee side hustle, Hard Knocks Moto Coffee, the dream finally became a reality.

For my first foray at the Isle of Man, I was teamed with the PRF Racing Team out of Skelmersdale, Lancashire, on the northwest corner of the United Kingdom. Running a Suzuki GSX-R600 in the two Supersport TTs, my first task was to ensure I was fast enough to qualify for the race, which was a much harder task than you would think.

The 2022 Isle of Man TT was the first in the rebooted

race since Covid caused a two-year shut down between 2020 and 2021, and the race organizers made some sweeping changes that included a maximum of 60 competitors for the Supersport category, and 50 for the Superbikes, which eliminated many of the slower entrants.

That meant you really had to get up and go from the start, which became quite the chore for me as my bike refused to start thanks to an electrical problem on the first night which meant I lost four crucial practice laps. Over the next two nights (practice ran from 5-6:00 pm to 8-9:00 pm), I gradually picked up knowledge and speed, culminating on the fourth night’s 117 mph lap that put me firmly on the grid for the Supersport class.

That 117 mph lap was one I’ll remember forever. You know those moments when you’ve been practicing something and it all just ‘clicks’ into place? It was one of those rare gems in time when my Suzuki and I gelled like dance partners and that little Hard Knocks Moto Coffee logo on my Alpinestars leathers flew around the most famous track of them all.

My two races at the TT were both deflating and delightful. I took 44th in the first encounter with an untested engine after the gearbox blew in the final practice session, but passing the fatal accident of Davy Morgan was something I really did not want to experience.

Davy’s was a crash that reminded me of the teeth this place has, and the paddock was a somber place that night.

On the contrary, the second race was a gem. It was reduced to a two lap sprint thanks to inclement weather and I crossed the line in 37th, quite happy with that given we’d suffered so many mechanical issues. I was just glad to get it all finished.

The TT is not for everyone. I’ll admit, from the outside, it looks utterly mad. The fact this race is legal in a world so litigious as this is quite remarkable.

What’s equally remarkable is what happens at the TT. This is the place where men and women come to do something very few people will ever get the chance to do. It’s a terrifying, life-affirming expedition of the human race, a place where living on the edge has never meant so much.

UNLEASH YOUR INNER DEMON

ICON MOTOSPORTS •

FIELD ARMOR SOFTCORE VEST ISH

The Field Armor Softcore Vest gives you the coverage you need for an aggressive ride, with D3O impact protectors in the chest and back. The low-profile chassis easily fits under most jackets, to keep you cool with Iron Weave™ mesh construction that reduces heat build-up while elastic waist straps provide a quick and secure fit.

Sizes: S/M, M/L, XL/2X, L3XL/4XL

Colors: Black, Dark Camo, Megabolt Black, Green Camo

Price: $110.00

Contact: https://rideicon.com

VOODOO INDUSTRIES •

SUZUKI GSXR 1000 SNIPER FRONT WHEEL

The Sniper Wheels are the latest offerings from the good folks at VooDoo. With applications for Suzuki GSXR 1000, model years 2001 through 2021, the Sniper specs out at 16 inches by 3.5 inches, tipping the scales at 9.36 pounds. Cast in aluminum with a gloss black finish, the hybrid design uses the OEM axle for mounting.

Price: $549.95 - $689.95

Contact: https://www.voodoomoto.com

HJC HELMETS•

TOOTHLESS RPHA 11 PRO HELMET

The safety features on the HJC RPHA 11 are premium and ideal for sportbike riders. The enlarged eye port gives riders a better view while in a tucked position, and the outstanding airflow ventilation system keeps riders cool. Additionally, there are reflective patches on the rear neck area for greater visibility, and an emergency release cheek pad system to ensure safe and quick removal of the helmet in an emergency situation.

Sizes: XS - XXL

Prices: $629.99

Contact: https://www.hjchelmets.us

BROCK'S PERFORMANCE • UNIVERSAL GEL TANK PAD

Eliminate the knicks and scratches that inevitably happen when your jacket comes into contact with your bike's fuel tank with the universal gel tank pad from Brock's Performance. It's easy to install and gives your tank a custom look. Brock says that unique 3D gloss gel is guaranteed not to bubble or yellow. Available in five vibrant colors for under 20 bucks.

Colors: Grey, Blue, Pink, Green, Red Price: $19.99

Contact: https://brocksperformance.com

REV'IT! • - ARROW LADIES SHOES

The Arrow Ladies is also fully compliant with the latest CE requirements and our partnership with OrthoLite solidifies the comfort felt with every step you take. The Arrow Ladies unite the look and feel of your everyday sneaker with high-level motorcycle protection and will become your next favorite pair of shoes, whether you are planning on riding or not.

Sizes: 36 - 42 Price: $209.99

Contact: https://www.revitsport.com RACING • YZF-R7 2.0 FRAME SLIDERS

New for the Yamaha R7 are the Puig PRO 2.0 frame sliders. The frame sliders are composed of a central body made of impact and abrasion-resistant polyamide and two pieces made of thermoplastic elastomer on the front and rear. The elastomer components of the PRO 2.0 frame sliders can be personalized with a selection of color options that include blue, red, green and grey.

Colors: Blue, Red, Green, Red Price: $176.85

Contact: https://puigusa.com

THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM

If you're looking for a reliable and sturdy companion on all your travels, look no further than the PRO City Waterproof Tank Bag. With 9 liters of storage space, this bag will keep all your belongings dry without needing a rain cover or an extra inner pocket. The adjustable partition in the main compartment with an additional mesh compartment ensures that everything is cleverly organized. The strong outer pockets are equipped with waterproof zippers so they are completely water resistant as well.

The Waterproof Tank Bag offers a striking, timeless design made from durable materials and sophisticated features. The top is made of laminated EVA for a secure hold on auxiliary products like your smartphone or tablet mount, with a MOLLE attachment made from durable hypalon.

The top ring guide rail, which comes attached from the factory, allows easy adjustment of the position of the tank bag on the tank and to the ergonomic needs of the rider. Only the PRO tank bags offer this flexibility. Matching this, SW-Motech offers the patented PRO tank rings made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic.

They are manufactured to match the motorcycle model and attached to the tank filler neck.The robust PRO tank ring with magnetic guide aid secures the PRO tank bags with a mechanical quick lock snap closure. This allows the tank bags to be attached or removed with just one hand.

SW MOTECH • PRO CITY WATERPROOF TANK BAG https://sw-motech.us