NOVEMBER 2019 VOL 10 ISSUE 2
SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM TM
DUCATI
PANIGALE
V2
PODCAST 2 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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CONTENTS
NOVEMBER 2019 - VOLUME 10, ISSUE 2 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14
14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=36 36 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=42 42 MOTOGP WITH B.T. - By B.T. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58 58 ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY - By Brian and Julian Glascoe http://issuu.com/action/page?page=68 68 THE INSIDE LINE - By Devonne Duerbaum http://issuu.com/action/page?page=76 76 THE LION'S DEN - By Lion James http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84 84 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=90 90 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS - By Eric Wood http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96 96 THE NEW ISH
FEATURED RIDER: T.K. http://issuu.com/action/page?page=84 PAGE 84
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FE ATURING:
TESTED AND CERTIFIED ACCORDING TO EU STANDARD: prEN 17092-2:2017 CL ASS A A A
RIDEICON.COM
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FEATURES
NOVEMBER 2019 - VOLUME 10, ISSUE 2
THE FIRST RIDE: 2020 PANIGALE V2
22
KING OF THE SOUTH GRUDGEFEST
58
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: USING OTHER RIDERS
90
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=22
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=90
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MOTOGP WITH B.T.
42
THE LION'S DEN
76
THE NEW ISH: HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
96
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=42
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=76
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=96
R HISTORY. YOUR FUTURE. WE R1.
2 0 2 0 Y Z F-R 1 M From the launch of the first Yamaha YZF®-R1 to today’s MotoGP inspired machinery, it has been a master class of domination. For 2020, the new R1M features next generation R Series styling, sophisticated electronic control, enhanced braking and suspension performance, and a refined crossplane engine.
YamahaMotorsports.com Professional riders on closed area. Model in action shown is modified to a racing specification and intended for circuit use only. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, riding jacket or long sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. ©2019 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.
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STAFF
Publisher//Editor in Chief: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL
ART & DESIGN
Staff Writers: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Lion James lion@sportbikesincmag.com B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Devonne Duerbaum devonne@sportbikesincmag.com Eric Wood eric@sportbikesincmag.com
Creative Director//Layout//Design: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
Copy Editor: Stacey Lane stacey@sportbikesincmag.com Contributors: Kevin Duke
Creative Supervisor: Leon Brittain leon@sportbikesincmag.com Graphic Designer: Baz baz@sportbikesincmag.com Cover Photography: Milagro Contributing Photographers: Brian J. Nelson Milagro MotoGP.com Asphalt and Opportunity Devonne Duerbaum Etech Photo
SportBikes Inc Magazine - November 2019 Volume 10, Issue 2 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2020 Media Kit and Advertising Rates, please email: info@sportbikesincmag.com.
In no way can any part of this magazine be reproduced in print, digital, broadcast or any other manner without the expressed written permission of the publisher.
SportBikes Inc Magazine (ISSN 2158-009X) is published monthly by Hard Knocks Motorcycle Entertainment.
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Any and all items submitted to SportBikes Inc Magazine will become the sole property of SportBikes Inc Magazine and are subject to, but not limited to edits, comments and titles.
Sportbikes Inc Magazine, staff and partners are not responsible for injuries, loss or damage to their being, vehicle or property, including death that may result from contest submissions.
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FEATURE STORY
DUCATI
PANIGALE
V2
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FROM THE EDITOR
WWW.SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM
THE SBI FEED If you have been checking out the SportBikes Inc Magazine site, you would have noticed some significant changes. A little while back, we redesigned and then updated the site and its format. Inspired by the need to provide our readers with daily content, we added the SBI FEED. Think of it as a daily digital news desk that supports the monthly digital magazine. We also added the SBI FEED weekly newsletter that includes a selection of headlines from the week's highlights emailed to your inbox. Once subscribed, you'll never miss a story.
newsletter, share relevant posts on social media, and so on. We will continue to make upgrades and refinements to the website while we continue to enhance our lifestyle events and experiences throughout the year. Look for more giveaways, contests, and events in the coming year. In the spirit of being thankful, I am thankful and grateful for your continued readership and support. It's time that we crack the throttle wide open and show you what that means to us. Actions speak louder than words.
We are always sourcing manners in which we can improve your experience and increase our engagement with you, our readers. I want to personally ask that you take a moment and Best, check out www.sportbikesincmag.com, comment Allan your thoughts on articles, subscribe to the weekly allan@sportbikesincmag.com 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
USING A RACETRACK AS A LIVING LABORATORY
As a recognised long-standing major motorsport player, Motul benefits from the world’s best laboratory in the most extreme racing conditions. At the Isle of Man TT, you must fully trust your machine around bumpy and winding public roads at 330km/h. Honda has chosen Motul to lubricate their racing engines: a reward for our ingenuity and performances.
Recognised by many teams worldwide as the best racing engine oil, the 300V has inspired a wide range of engine motor oil tailored to meet the most demanding constraints of daily rides. Find the one you need on www.motul.com
NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 13
THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS YAMAHA’S 2020 MT-07, MT-09, AND MT-10
YAMAHA'S 2020 MT-10
Yamaha continues to further embrace their dark side with the release of the 2020 versions of their MT (Masters of Torque) model lineup, hailing from the dark side of Japan. THE MT-07 A class higher than the previously announced MT-03, the $7,599 (MSRP) MT-07 steps into the night with a 698cc twin-cylinder engine, housed in a lightweight narrow frame design. Available colors include Ice Flou, Team Yamaha Blue, and Matte Raven Black. THE MT-09 With an 847cc triple-cylinder engine, the MT09 is equipped adjustable suspension and
YAMAHA'S 2020 MT-09
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YAMAHA'S 2020 MT-07
YAMAHA'S 2020 MT-10
an electronics package to enhance the rider experience. The MT-09 is priced at $8,999 and is available in Ice Fluo, Team Yamaha Blue, and Matte Raven Black. THE MT-10 The MT-10, birthed in the darkness, is powered by an inline four-cylinder 998cc engine with the same Crossplane Crankshaft technology that you would find in the Yamaha YZF-R1. This hyper naked machine is kitted with a suite of adjustable features and rider aids that make it a premium option for its class. With an MSRP of $12,999, the MT-10 is available in Ice Flou and Matte Raven Black. NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15
THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS USE CODE “SBI20” TO RECEIVE $3.00 OFF TICKETS FOR THE PROGRESSIVE INTERNATIONAL MOTORCYCLE SHOW You can save a few dollars when you purchase your tickets online at www. motorcycleshows.com and use the promo code SBI20 at checkout. The code grants you a $3.00 discount off of online ticket purchases. Progressive Insurance celebrates this 39th season of shows with a renewed commitment of sponsorship. Progressive, the title sponsor of the IMS since 2010, has announced that they will continue in that role through 2025. The IMS will continue with the support of other sponsors that include Cycle Gear, and J&P Cycles. A new stop on the 2019/2020 tour consists of a January visit to the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, CO. Returning event features will include the thriving “Discover the Ride” initiative, as well as the “The Marketplace,” and “The Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show.”
APRILIA HERALDS IN A NEW ERA FOR THEIR BRAND WITH THEIR APRILIA RS 660 Initially, the RS 660 was revealed in 2018 as a concept bike. Now, slated for production, the self-titled "entry-level" motorcycle isn't just for the novice rider. The powerplant of the RS 660 is a forward-facing parallel-twin, 660cc engine whose throttle response is managed via a multimap electronic acceleration setup. Thanks to Aprilia's Performance Ride Control (APRC), the RS 660 is furnished with a full suite of safety and performance features that include traction control, wheelie control, cruise control, quick shift, and engine brake. The RS 660's internal six-axis inertial platform is vital for its ability to recognize road conditions and adapt 16 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
the power and braking components, accordingly. One cannot overlook the advanced multimap cornering ABS nor the five riding modes that will provide enhancements to any ride experience, track or street. You will notice the double fairing on the RS 660, a feature derived from the Aprilia RS-GP MotoGP machine, designed to boost aerodynamics and keep the lightweight RS 660 planted to the asphalt at speed. The Aprilia RS 660 will be available in two color options. The first, purple and red to honor the 1994 two-stroke RS 250 Reggiani Replica version. The second, black with subtle red highlights.
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THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS THE 2021 HONDA CBR1000RR-R AKA THE FIREBLADE SP
On the global stage, the CBR1000RR is known by its moniker, the Fireblade, except for the US. That all changes with the arrival of the 2021 model of Honda's flagship superbike. The 2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is the perfect storm of championship-winning MotoGP technology and world-class performance. The Fireblade's powerful inline four-cylinder engine has been revamped to be compact inside its new aluminum diamond frame. The frame is longer to offer enhanced stability. Equipped with a full suite of rider aids, the Fireblade provides torque control options via the Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), in addition to Start Mode, Power, Engine Brake,
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and Wheelie Control. A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit is installed along with a three-level honda electronic steering damper and an Ohlins Smart Electronic Control setup. New Brembo Stylema calipers work in harmony with 330mm front rotors and a two-level ABS for impressive braking performance. Aerodynamics of the bodywork are developed from and inspired by the RC213V HRC MotoGP machine, including the wings.The 2021 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP will be available in the HRC TriColor colorway, and expected to arrive at showrooms in Summer 2020. MSRP is TBD.
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DUCATI PANIGALE
V2
WORDS: KEVIN DUKE IMAGES: MILAGRO NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 23
THE FIRST RIDE: 2020 PANIGALE V2
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THE ERA OF V-TWIN SUPERBIKES E N D E D when Ducati launched its incredible Panigale V4 in 2018, displacing the formidable 1299 as the Italian brand’s flagship. But with the arrival of the Panigale V2, the boys in Bologna remind us that there’s plenty of life left in its twin-cylinder sportbikes. It adds the styling cues of the V4 to the 959 Panigale platform, and infuses it with color TFT instrumentation and the latest electronic rider aids. We journeyed to Jerez in Spain to wring its V-twin neck.
Seeing the Panigale V2 in person induces lustful admiration for its sexy appearance. While the 959 was already a looker, the V2 takes it to another level. New LED headlights lead the way, while the side fairings incorporate Ducati’s “double-layer” design that’s designed to reduce the amount of engine heat hitting a rider. But it’s the back half of the V2 that is most sensational. Bolting on the 1299 Panigale’s single-sided swingarm helps the V2 stand out from its competitors and gives the bike a light and NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 25
THE FIRST RIDE: 2020 PANIGALE V2
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2020 PANIGALE V2
BENDING THE PANIGALE V2 INTO CORNERS IS MORE ACCURATELY DESCRIBED AS DELIBERATE THAN QUICK.
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2020 PANIGALE V2 airy appearance, aided by the new under-engine muffler that exits into a tidy stub. An accessory titanium/carbon Akrapovic exhaust boosts power and drops 15 pounds. The V2’s tail-section is achingly pretty, with flowthrough panels that urge a second and third look. Seen from the rear with the lovely LED tail-lights ringing the open tail-section combines to create one of the nicest asses in motorcycledom. More premium features are offered in the V2’s electronics and its six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit. The IMU monitors speed, gear selection, lean angles and yaw angles to inform a bevy of rider aids, like traction control, cornering ABS braking, wheelie control, engine-brake control, and an up/down quickshifter. Th ese el e c t ro n ic rid er a id s en ab l e a 155-horsepower Italian stallion to be almost simple to ride on a racetrack. Ride modes of Street, Sport and Race are programmed with appropriate traction control, ABS and enginebrake control to suit the intended use, but the system allows each to be individually customized to suit rider preferences via the new 4.3-inch color TFT instrument panel and a few button pushes. We started the day in Sport mode, which offers smooth throttle application and a lower threshold before ABS and traction-control interventions in its default settings. The addition of cornering ABS is a noteworthy feature, especially for street riders, as it truly can remedy dreaded front-end traction losses in slick conditions. Updates to the 959 motor boosts output to 155 hp from its 955cc powerplant, enough to catapult the Duc to 155 mph on the back-straight at Jerez. The roaring V-twin pulls with authority anywhere after 6000 rpm, and the quickshifter allows shifting gears without touching the clutch lever, including rev-matching the engine during downshifts. Feel from the Brembo M4.32 30 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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THE FIRST RIDE: 2020 PANIGALE V2
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THE ROARING V-T WIN PULLS WITH AUTHORITY ANYWHERE AFTER 6000 RPM, AND THE QUICKSHIFTER ALLOWS SHIFTING GEARS WITHOUT TOUCHING THE CLUTCH LEVER, INCLUDING REV-MATCHING THE ENGINE DURING DOWNSHIFTS. monoblock brakes is solid, and the ABS system will prevent the rear wheel from lifting when set in Sport mode but allow it in Race mode. Bending the Panigale V2 into corners is more accurately described as deliberate than quick, but it’s very stable laid over in a turn and has plenty of ground clearance. The bike scales in at 441 pounds with its 4.5-gallon tank filled. A new seat, at 33.1 inches from the ground and with a faux suede finish and classy V2 embossment, provides extra room to move around and a bit more padding. The Panigale V2 ($16,495) is remarkably undemanding to ride while extracting its considerable performance potential, aided by electronic rider aids that are as good as they get. The same will hold true when riding on the street where the V2’s alluring appearance will garner envious looks. Ducati’s latest super-mid proves to be a real super bike. NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 33
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THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS
MOTUL FIM SUPERBIKE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP’S 2020 SEASON CALENDAR The FIM released the official schedule for the 2020 season. The next season of the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship, FIM Supersport, and Supersport 300 World Championships kick off on February 28, 2020, at the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit in Australia. The season concludes October
11, 2020, in Argentina at the Circuito San Juan Villicum. What's missing from the 13 round itinerary? It may come as a shocker to many, but it is the US round. There will be no American round in 2020 for WorldSBK.
ACHTUNG! WORLDSBK IS RETURNING TO GERMANY The last WorldSBK race held at Germany's Motorsport Arena Oschersleben was in 2004. It was announced that the circuit would once again perform the role of the host for the WorldSBK Championship during the weekend of July 31 through August 2, 2020. During that weekend, race action will include the Superbike as well as the Supersport 300 classes, in addition to others. 36 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
HUSQVARNA HEADS BACK TO THE MOTO3 GRID WITH MAX RACING TEAM Armed with the new Husqvarna FR 250 GP, the Max Racing Team, owned by fourtime 250cc World Champion Max Biaggi will grid up for the 2020 Moto3 season. The team will consist of riders Romano Fenati and Alonso Lopez under Team Manager, Peter Öttl.
JORGE LORENZO IS RETIRING FROM MOTOGP The Five-Time World Champion and current Repsol Honda Team rider, Jorge Lorenzo, has announced his retirement from Grand Prix racing, following the final race of the 2019 season at Valencia at a press conference. Th e 32- ye a r - o l d Spaniard won t h e 250 c c Wo r l d Championship in 2006 a n d 2 0 07 b e fo re h i s ch a mpio n s h i p winning seasons in 2 0 1 0 , 2 0 1 2 a nd 2015 with Yamaha. This weekend's season finale at Gran Premio Motul de la Comunitat Valenciana will be the last race for the former champion. NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 37
THE PRESS ROOM: GRID NEWS THE BROTHERS MARQUEZ ARE SET TO TAKE ON THE MOTOGP PREMIER CLASS
The 2019 Moto2 World Champion, Alex Marquez, has signed a one-year agreement with the Honda Racing Corporation's Repsol Honda MotoGP team. The two-time World Champion will join his brother, eight-time World Champion,
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Marc Marquez, at Repsol for the 2020 season. Replacing the recently retired Jorge Lorenzo, Alex Marquez will make his debut in the premier class, onboard the Honda RC213V.
LEON HASLAM COMPLETES THE HRC WORLDSBK 2020 LINEUP The 2020 Wo r l d S B K Factor y Honda team, backed by HRC, revealed t h a t t h ey h a d completed their team lineup with the announcement of Leon Haslam as the second rider for their 2020 team. Haslam joins Alvaro Bautista, the 2019 WorldSBK Ch a m p i o n s h i p Runner Up.
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FRICTION ZONE: A CLUB OF GUYS
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THE GRID
M
&
ISANO RAGON
A
MOTOGP WITH B.T.
WORDS: B.T. IMAGES: COURTESY OF MOTOGP.COM 42 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T. I KNOW I'M supposed to come up with a clever narrative to describe MotoGP races and its racers. The brave young men who thrill us on the weekends with their feats of heroics as they try and tame their two-wheeled beasts while battling with each other in spaces tighter than a baby's shoe! But to be honest, when describing Marc Marquez, I'm literally at a loss for words. He has been so dominant that his opponents are no longer thinking victory. They're just hoping for a podium. How dominant? He has earned pole in exactly 50 percent of all the races he's started! This season alone, he's finished first or second in the fourteen races he's started. His only blunder? A DNF in Austin, which, according to Repsol Honda, was not his fault! So with all his dominance, why would anyone in their right mind want to test him, bow upon him, wake a sleeping tiger, whatever adjective or superlative you want to use, why would you want to do that? Great question. And that is the question that was asked at the Italian GP. MISANO. SEPTEMBER 14. QP2. With less than five minutes left in qualifying, Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez, both went out for a fast lap. What happened next is to be interpreted how you saw it. Some say Rossi impeded Marc's fast lap, knowing he couldn't make the pole. Others say it was Marc trying to get a tow from Rossi, and Rossi was having none of that as he did at Silverstone. However, you saw it, the two greats nearly collided with Marquez holding his hand at Rossi as if to say "Whoa," and Rossi making a similar gesture. Whatever the case, it had everyone from journalists to babies giving their own interpretation. And you couldn't help but conjure up the ill-fated 2015 season when a friendship was fractured like a funhouse mirror, and maybe Rossi's last chance at a championship was dashed. To be honest, GP has never been the same, nor the two men. Rossi has shown glimpses of the great champion he is, but it 44 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
AUGUSTO FERNADEZ
ALEX MARQUEZ LORENZO DELLA PORTA
ARON CANET NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 45
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
FABIO QUARTARARO
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MARC MARQUEZ
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THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
BRAD BINDER 48 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
is Marquez who has emerged as maybe the greatest champion that the sport has seen! So when asked about the incident, Marquez responded with "Just to be clear, when I put my hand out, I was not apologizing, I was saying, 'What is going on?'" That's about as close as you're going to get to Marquez talking shit, but you could tell, this lit a fire inside Marquez.
POL ESPARGARO
JOAN MIR
Misano is "not a Honda track," says Marquez. It's tight. Not very many places to pass. You could tell that in the free practices. If ever there was a time to strike a blow to Marquez's dominance, it was here in Italy, Rossi's hometown, a mere stone's throw away and the beach even closer. It sure seemed ripe for the picking. Then came Sunday! It's kinda fitting that Italy is shaped like a boot because, on Sunday, Marquez took that boot and kicked all of Italy in the ass with it. Starting in a season-low of P5 on the grid, surrounded by three Yamahas on the first two rows and Desmo Dovi next to him in P6. Marquez managed to stalk Fabio Quartararo like R. Kelly would stalk a high school prom queen and make a last-lap move and claim victory in front of over 90,000 manic Italians. With Rossi, a distant fourth, an overly animated Marquez said in his post-race interview, "I do my talking on the track!" Which is Marquez's way of saying, "Take that!" ARAGON. SEPTEMBER 22. Remember how I said Misano was not a Honda track? Well, Aragon is a Marquez favorite, and it doesn't take Neil deGrasse Tyson to tell you what happened. As a matter of fact, the biggest blow of the weekend occurred during FP1. With the threat of rain ruining qualifying, Marquez, in a stroke of genius, with a soft tyre decimated the field by over 1.8 seconds! In FP 1! That's like being a boxer in 1986 and finding NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 49
THE GRID: MOTOGP WITH B.T.
BRAD BINDER
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out you finally get that million-dollar fight, but it's against an even angrier Mike Tyson! And to be honest, that's pretty much all you need to know. Marquez put on a show, that wasn't really a show as it was a dismantling. The race was never close. Marquez won by over four seconds, but as Marc basically said, "Why?" With visions of Austin in his head, Marquez won by a comfortable enough margin with championship runner-up Dovi in second and a rejuvenated Jack Miller in third. The real championship races are in Moto3 and Moto2, respectively. Aron Canet is two points behind Lorenzo Dalla Porta in Moto3, despite scoring zero points in Misano. But showing how much of a champion's heart he has, he dominated Aragon and showed that this championship would not be won without a fight. One look at Canet tells you, he ain't afraid to scrap. MOTO2 Alex Marquez has a slender 38 point lead over his closest opponent Jorge Navarro. But this field will keep Marquez more honest than a pickpocket in Saudi Arabia! Watch for Navarro, Augusto Fernandez, and Brad Binder as his main rivals. As for MotoGP? It is done! Marquez has a 98 point lead going into the final five races, which will be the flyaway rounds. All Marquez has to do is finish 14th in the next race, and number 8 is his, or number 8 will be his in the next race! A separate piece will be written on the dominance we are witnessing. But first, let's see what will happen, and then we will talk. NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 51
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THE REV LIMITER: ON THE COME UP
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BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
NAME: Nick Beaudry HOMETOWN: Hollywood, FL AGE: 32 years old. SERIES: WERA Southeast Series, Amateur 600 STK, Amateur 600 SBK ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2 top 5 finishes in my rookie season after only making 3 rounds of racing on the new bike. GOALS: Get on the box this season, compete for a championship! DEFINE YOUR PASSION IN ONE SENTENCE: If they stand behind you, lead them... If they stand beside you, respect them... If they stand against you, defeat them... Fear nothing.
IMAGES: COURTESY OF NICK BEAUDRY
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THE STRAIGHT LINE
F O G N KI H T U O S E T TH S E F E G D U GR ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
WORDS AND.IMAGES: BRIAN AND JULIAN GLASCOE 58 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY NEWLY INTRODUCED FOR the 2019 drag racing season was Major League Grudge series, also known as MLG. Several bike owners from within the grudge racing scene decided to come together and create a grudge racing series consisting of roughly five races that covered various racing facilities across the south. The weather played a major factor throughout the season. However, when they came to Alabama, MLG finally got a race off for a Friday night and all day Saturday event. Racers came from as far as Chicago to attend the highly anticipated race event. And they definitely came to race!
We made it to Huntsville Dragway around roughly 3 pm on the Friday of the event after nearly a four and a half-hour drive. We arrived just after the gate opened, in time to set up and get ready for Friday night's locked in grudge matches. Now, plenty of trash-talking took place during the week leading up to the event, so we knew that the weekend would finish with a lot of intensity.
The most anticipated features of the night were previously locked in races between team HTP Performance and team AM Performance. Both shops have been winning all season long, and it was time to separate the real from the fake, the boys from the men. Caleb Holt on Money Moves called out HTP, and they went head-to-head with Lil' Charlie on Jizzle. 60 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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THE STRAIGHT LINE: ASPHALT & OPPORTUNITY
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These two shops know one another very well, and both machines have elite riders. The owners have the utmost respect for one another, but there can only be one left standing at the end of the day. You're either gonna win or you're gonna lose. No excuses! Caleb on Money Moves beat Lil Charlie on Jizzle as Lil Charlie goes red at the light.
Lance Hines caused some KAOS while winning two grudge races over Juggernaut, and Soupbones (HTP Performance built Grudge Hayabusa). Dre' Buckets made his debut on Baby Cakes and was ready for action but couldn't find any smoke with the HTP Performance built machine. NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 65
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CORNERING LEARN THE SKILLS DISCOVER THE ART
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THE LIFE
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EICMA
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THE LIFE: THE INSIDE LINE
IT WAS THAT time of the year for Italy's famous motorcycle expo, EICMA. Unfortunately, I had to skip a few years, so you can imagine how much I was looking forward to being back. Tuesdays are press days, which is the best day to go because there are not many people, easy to get around, look, and take everything in. Surprisingly this year, it was a little bit more hectic with people around all the bikes you wanted to take photos of. Just the bike, please... No bodies behind or beside it. As my morning started, I did something different than I usually do and checked out the electric bikes, cars, and more. I went through that quickly and moved onto the cool stuff: real motorcycles. Funny I say this considering I feel as I'm a very eco-minded person, but when it comes to my motorcycles, I just can't appreciate the electric side as much as I should. A bike without sound doesn't do it for me. However, the electronics is another story. Honda came out with the instant famous CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Yep, that's a lot of zeros and Rs. Unsurprisingly, Honda was packed, especially where the Fireblade was. People were drooling, touching, oohing, and awwing over the bike. From the winglets, the six-axis IMU assist to the wet weight of 443lbs, this bike is pretty cool. This is definitely a bike I would like to test out on the track, and I'm sure many of you are eager to as well. Ducati had many bikes on display. From the concept Scramblers to the anticipated 70 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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THE LIFE: THE INSIDE LINE
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Streetfighter V4S. Obviously, I need one right away. The Streetfighter is bad. Bad, using millennial-hipster vocabulary, which means absolutely awesome. I've always loved the Streetfighter, but now they've taken it to another level. Winglets, liquid-cooled 1103cc engine that can produce 220hp with 95.8-foot-pounds of torque with a full racing exhaust... It also comes in a base V4 model, which is still very cool. Ducati's Scrambler division displayed two concept bikes, the Desert X and the Motard. Two very cool bikes, but different. Visually, the Desert X is comparable to the Honda African Twin, and what they're trying to go for, conceptually. The Motard is similar to a Hypermotard but lower with an 803cc, twocylinder engine. I would go with the Desert X if they made it a production model since I already have a Scrambler Icon, however, I wouldn't say no to both. Who would? There was a lot to see and many people to talk to at this year's event. However, I feel that EICMA is getting smaller in size. It is unfortunate considering years ago you could spend four days walking the halls and still not being able to see everything. All in all, I was able to see beautiful motorcycles and friends I don't get to see often, all in one place sharing one passion, motorcycles. We shall see what next year's event will have in store for us. NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 73
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THE LIFE
T THE LION'S DEN WORDS: LION JAMES IMAGES: ALLAN LANE 76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN
EARLY THIS NOVEMBER, I had the pleasure of having been invited to attend The Triumph “Best of British” tour event to debut Triumph Motorcycles’ new 2020 models here in Philadelphia, PA hosted by Triumph and Quaker City Motor Sports. I have been to many motorcycle events and quite a few sponsored by specific manufacturers, but this was the first I’ve attended hosted by and exclusively for Triumph. If you’ve been living under a rock the past few years or haven’t been paying attention (he said enthusiastically insinuating that The Lion’s Den is popular enough to assume that it is widely read by the two-wheeled community) you know I ride a Triumph motorcycle and champion the brand from my helmet to my heels. This event was special. This event was all Triumph motorcycles all night. This event was being held in my city. This event was for me and my fellow Euro riders. The event space was appropriately sized and adequately decorated and staffed. Despite my disappointment that the catering was not sufficient to feed the guests for more than the first 30 minutes of the two-plus hour celebration, I thoroughly enjoyed the model debut and opportunity to meet and talk with other motorcycle enthusiasts about motorcycles that I have a personal connection with and a special love for.
sportbikes, for several years now, but I have yet to see, read up on or ride one that has solidified my decision or motivated me to be dropped off at the dealership with the intention of riding home. Recently two motorcycles have become very real contenders, and I think I was waiting for either one of the two or a newcomer to make the decision easier for me. Enter the Triumph Rocket III R and Rocket III GT. While these two models are not clear-cut winners for my affection and, more importantly, my wallet, they certainly made my decision a lot harder. I don’t want to present a model review or overwhelm you with model specs and track performance data because that has never been what The Lion’s Den has been about, and you may read any number of articles in this or other publications for that angle, but I like this motorcycle. Along with a few other models, there are currently four cruisers in consumer contention for me.
I like the no-pressure lack of a sales agenda presented at the Best of British event I attended. Triumph was simply presenting new models to the public and not trying to sell me anything. Is the “non-sale” indeed a sales tactic? It most certainly is, and quite an effective one at that. There was sophistication in the air at the event that made me think of something that I once learned in business school, which is to ponder why Of the amazing new models unveiled throughout the “you never see commercials for Lamborghinis.” It night, the one that resonated with my inner and outer was indicative of the exclusive appeal, sophisticated biker the most was the Moto2 Daytona 765. No, association, and implied quality of the brand and that was not a typo, 765! My Triumph Daytona, like ownership of the brand’s offering. all others manufactured after 2006 up until now, is a 675, but Triumph has gone and done what all the The new Triumph models were not pushed on me or Triumph and Daytona 675 online forum discussions oversold or explained in such technical detail as if have been begging for. As if this new motorcycle, I were a factory trained motorcycle mechanic. They of which Triumph has only manufactured 765 of for were introduced, unveiled, and we were allowed to each market, was not enough inspiration, the new GT visually feast on them, touch them and sit on them while Rocket III was also debuted. “Inspiration for what?” you Triumph representatives and local dealership salesmen may ask. Inspiration for me to buy a new motorcycle, and women walked about eager to answer any questions and probably take pre-orders from anyone of course. in attendance that were so inclined to take advantage I have wanted to get another cruiser. My two-wheeled of such accommodating availability. For me, it was start was atop a cruiser before I started riding as if Triumph simply said to me, “Here are a few new 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
THE ONLY THING I AM SURE OF IS THAT I WANT TO ADD SOMETHING NEW TO MY RIDING EXPERIENCE BUT BEYOND THAT, I HAVE NOTHING DEFINITIVE IN MIND... bikes that you may be interested in. Let us know if you worlds when it comes to a sportbike or a cruiser is like them.” There was no, “So what do we need to to have both worlds. There is no one-stop solution to do to get you on a new Triumph motorcycle today?” wanting both because there is no true sportbike-cruiser hybrid that satisfies the need for or the appeal of both My interest in these new models got me thinking about motorcycle types. I want another cruiser, but at the the other cruisers I am interested in and influenced me same time, my deep love of motorcycles is such that to search out more. I do not know if my search for my being excited about any motorcycle always makes me next cruiser is over, and I have found the right bike excited for my motorcycle. This leads me to the real for me, nor do I know where my search will take me, conundrum that came out of the event I attended and but the Best of British event has definitely reinvigorated how it made me revisit my cruiser journey, which is the my search. One of the questions I have asked myself question of whether to buy a new cruiser or invest in with regard to a cruiser purchase is whether I want upgrades and saddle time on my sportbike. a cruiser built for comfort or performance. And while most cruisers are inherently more comfortable to ride I know that there is no substitute for saddle time, but than sportbikes, it should stand to reason that even a when it comes to a new riding experience, I need performance-driven cruiser will be more comfortable either a new ride or somewhere new to ride. A new ride means either a new motorcycle or making my than my current sportbike. motorcycle new again. One is obviously much less I’ve often said that the way to get the best of both expensive, but the other offers a totally different and NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 79
THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN
MY INTEREST IN THESE NEW MODELS GOT ME THINKING ABOUT THE OTHER CRUISERS I AM INTERESTED IN AND INFLUENCED ME TO SEARCH OUT MORE...
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new way to ride. Making the old and familiar new again has the added benefit of being challenging and educational while buying a new cruiser would put another bike in the garage. Getting a cruiser would scratch that itch I’ve had for years to make riding at lower speeds and in a more relaxed manner both enjoyable and convenient, but putting the money and energy into my sportbike would mean less money required for insurance and new gear. If I decide to get a new cruiser, what is the single aspect of the bike I can use to narrow my choice down to just one? Eliminating one or two of the choices may be easy based on specs and price alone, but choosing one from the remaining two may prove much more difficult.
answer and check-off in order to make a decision, but that’s not what the event was for or about. It was a great time, and I am grateful for Triumph hosting the event for us. The only thing I am sure of is that I want to add something new to my riding experience but beyond that have nothing definitive in mind. I am excited, I am impassioned, I am hopeful, and I am torn, to be honest. I am torn between two choices, and depending on my decision will be equally torn in how to play out the choice I make. To get a new bike or to make my bike new. That is the dilemma. That is why I am torn and what has been keeping me up at night since the Triumph 2020 model release party. What should I do?
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THE LIFE: THE LION'S DEN
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
T.K. LOCATION:Â Atlanta, GA OCCUPATION: Store Owner. YEARS RIDING: A whole lot for past 5 years. RIDING STYLE: Street with bold intervals to stunt and definitely looking foreword to track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2016 Honda CBR1000RR. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Several details I appreciate but something about the sound of my exhaust. Although my LEDs don't do anything for performance, I love when my bike is lit. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Simple.. My facemask and my Astars yoga riding pants. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Riding the FloraBama Coast and the longest thus far, from Houston to Mississippi. 84 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
Kevin Valencia LOCATION: Los Angeles, CA OCCUPATION: Automotive Technician. YEARS RIDING: 9 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2008 Suzuki GSX1300R Hayabusa FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Helibars Clip-Ons and my RK 530 XW Ring Chain (black with gold pins) that blends in with the black wheels and swingarm. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: ICON Airframe Pro Helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Riding to work for the first time ever on public roads on my '91 CBR600F2, in the rain, and stalling while riding through morning traffic. The cause? A dummy moment of forgetting to switch the fuel petcock to "reserve."
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Nancy Ha LOCATION: Westminster, CA OCCUPATION: Medical Transcriber. YEARS RIDING: 2.5 years. RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2009 Kawasaki ZX-6R. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Shoei X14 helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: I have always loved motorcycles, and finally got the courage to get one when I was 21. I’ve always wanted to race but after crashing at 130mph, I’ve been having mental blockage. But everyday I am working towards my fear and conquering it. Hopefully, one day I will be able to race. 86 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
Gunnkillz LOCATION: Malvern, PA OCCUPATION: Collision Specialist. YEARS RIDING: 20 years, 2 years street RIDING STYLE: Street. BIKE/S OWNED: 2015 Yamaha FZ09. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: My full M4 exhaust. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My ICON Brozak Helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: My birthday ride this year. More than 100 riders came to join. Â
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MADE FOR RIDERS THAT CARE.
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
USING OTHER RIDERS
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS WORDS: ERIC WOOD IMAGES: THE SBIMAGE 90 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS: USING OTHER RIDERS I HAVE BEEN coming to the racetrack and watching races for over 40 years. In the thousands of races I have observed in that time, some interesting patterns have emerged. Some riders can manage to pull out a great finish no matter where they start. I remember watching certain top riders at both the pro and club level tear through the pack like they were standing still. However, there was another group of riders (even faster guys) who would often get stuck behind motorcycles that they caught up to quickly on a previous lap.
mental exercise than anything else. The differences between the riders like Rossi and the others is not physical talent, strength, or sheer will - all of those riders have those qualities in spades. The difference is in mental preparation, strategy and toughness. These riders spend time preparing and strategizing that the others no not. Outside of the rare riding genius who can extract every ounce from a motorcycle all by himself, most riders tend to have certain strengths and weaknesses. I have ridden many times with riders who are doing the exact same lap times as me, but who are much slower in certain parts of the track and much faster in others. In order to make a pass, the natural tendency for many riders in this position is to try even harder in the area where they are strong. They do this because it is easier to push the envelope in an area where they are already fast and comfortable. However, since they are already closer to the limit in this area, there is less room to improve. There is a better way.
As I began my own professional career, I noticed that some riders qualified well and then always seemed to fade back during the race. Other riders (the ones that you read about most in the magazines) were able to come from behind and run the fastest times of the weekend near the end of the race. This was something that fascinated me. I needed to learn how these riders, on worn tires, could run faster than they could even in qualifying (often on extra soft rubber). This information would benefit all riders - racers and I was taught years ago by a wise mentor that track day enthusiasts alike. when I ride I should expect my peers to be faster in Over the course of several years talking and riding some areas, and the way to beat them is to learn with riders at all levels, I began to put it all together. from them in the areas where they are strong. If I Some riders could only go fast when there was a rabbit had a concrete set of references that I was able to in front of them. When given the opportunity to lead, consistently follow every lap, I could measure myself they were often quickly passed but when a fast rider against my competition everywhere on the racetrack was in front of them they could hang right in there. and re-commit myself to a new race plan during in Sometimes they would win with a draft to the finish the race. If I could do this, then I would be able to line, but more often than not these riders would fade match them in their strong areas and continue to at the end or have trouble making a pass stick. These excel in my best areas. Making the pass with only a riders, while recognized for their speed, would rarely few laps to go would then prevent them from having the time to use the same strategy against me. If you be the ones standing on top of the box in the end. notice at professional events, some riders are extremely Other riders, like Valentino Rossi and Martin Cardenas sensitive to another rider follow them in practice and to name a couple, would sit in second place for much will actually pull over anytime they feel that they are of the race and then strike (almost what seemed at will) "teaching" another rider too much. However, at track at the end of the race and pull away to win. Much days the atmosphere is quite different and riders are like riders who needed the rabbit, they would hang often happy to help out a friend. right with the rider in front, but these elite racers not only were able to instantly capitalize on any mistake, The key to making this all work is to first have a full you could just sense they were simply learning more set of reference points that you can use as a basis for comparison. Riders who do not complete this and more about the racetrack every lap. first step will be much like the riders we discussed at Riding the racetrack, whether you are a world the beginning who need the rabbit. If a rider has a championship racer or track day rider, is more of a light touch on the controls, allowing for full traction and optimum feedback, he will be able to follow 92 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
someone who is a couple seconds a lap faster simply my mimicking everything that rider does. However, if the trailing rider is watching for his own marks while following the leader, he can make mental notes of exactly what to change and then replicate that on his own. This leads us to our final point, which is "how" a rider should follow another. The trailing rider needs to be able to look around and compare the reference marks of the lead rider to his own. To allow for this and prevent the tendency to stare at the rear tire of the lead rider, trailing riders should follow the lead rider about one tire width to either the inside or outside through most of the corner. Unless you are riding on the ragged edge of disaster, this should not affect your ability to stay with the lead rider and it will open up your field of vision so that you can take in more information. It is important when following to keep your vision high.
a pass. Having ridden in thousands of races over the years, I've made countless passes to the left or right of a rider, but I have yet to complete a successful pass by going through someone (perhaps I've had an unsuccessful one or two). Whether you are trying to avoid accidental contact or simply make a pass, racing is a game of fractions of a second. If you are following in the wheel tracks of a rider and want to make a pass, you need to first move before you can go by. If you are already sitting to one side or the other, there is no hesitation and the move can be made nearly instantly. This can be the difference between making a pass or staying behind, and even between taking someone out and avoiding an incident. Using other riders to learn (whether they want to teach you or not) is one of the most valuable tools a rider can use. It just takes a little preparation and forethought, and the results will often help take your riding to the next level.
Additional reasons to avoid riding directly in the wheel tracks of another rider are that it is both safer in case Until next time... Ride fast. Ride safe! of a mistake by the lead rider and it is easier to make
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THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • CROSSWALK BACKPACK A mid-sized moto backpack that won't break the bank, the Crosswalk wears excellent on and off the bike. With an 18-liter capacity and a padded laptop compartment, it has plenty of room to facilitate your daypack needs. The contoured padded shoulder straps and padded back help keep you comfortable even when carrying heavier loads. The shoulder straps also unbuckle, making it easier to get the Crosswalk backpack on and off while wearing your riding jacket. The aerodynamic shape is designed for minimal drag, keeping the bag stable on your back. The reflective webbing adds to increased visual conspicuity – a must for riders everywhere. When off of the bike, the Crosswalk is configured to deploy a helmet carrying system that allows you to walk around hands-free. Lightweight and versatile, the Crosswalk backpack provides the features you need for the riding you want. Price: $75.00 Contact: www.rideicon.com
HIPLOK • Z LOCK COMBO The Z LOK COMBO by Hiplok is a reusable, and multi-use securable zip tie. It is the ideal companion to take on rides, use it to keep helmets secured on short stops! Colors: Black, Teal, Yellow Price: $24.99 Contact: www.hiplok.com
MUC-OFF • PREMIUM MICROFIBRE POLISHING CLOTH The Muc-Off polishing cloth is a must-have for all motorcyclists. Use it for cleaning, drying, or polishing! The Muc-Off Microfibre cloths contain an amazing 'split-fiber' technology that vastly increases surface area absorbency to eliminate smears and blemishes easily. The cloth is machine washable, meaning they can be used time and time again. Price: $11.99 Contact: www.muc-off.com 96 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
VOODOO MOTO • MINI MEG SLIP-ON EXHAUST Introducing the next generation, Voodoo Mini Meg. Building on the DNA that is tried and trued, this next level exhaust is poised to raise the bar for aftermarket exhausts, much higher. Constructed from stainless steel with billet aluminum endcaps and equipped with high heat black coating, the Mini Meg features the Voodoo Phantom Core, as a standard. The Voodoo Phantom Core has a stainless mesh outlet screen for an aggressive look and sound control. Paired with the smaller diameter inner core and more packing than our Voodoo Shorty standard core, exhaust sound level is reduced up to 6 decibels over the comparable Shorty. Available for a selection of late-model sportbikes. Prices: $299.99 - $779.95 Contact: www.voodoomoto.com
DAINESE • CORBIN D DRY GLOVES The CE-certified gloves with a waterproof membrane and polyurethane protections. A three seasons glove with the superior feel of soft drum-dyed goatskin leather, plus the protection of polyurethane knuckle inserts and a D-Dry waterproof membrane. CE Cat. II and EN 13594 certification put their seal on safety that won't cramp your style. Sizes: XXXS - XXXL Price: $149.95 Contact: www.dainese.com
GOPRO • HERO8 BLACK
GoPro's latest offering to the action camera universe could be there greatest product to date. Improving upon of all of the features that were prominent in previous GoPro cams, the HERO8 takes things to a whole new level. Some of the features include Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization, built-in mounting, digital lenses, TimeWarp 2.0, SuperPhoto, Night Lapse, and HiFi Audio, plus more. The waterproof Hero8 is upgradeable with a selection of on-camera mods at additional costs: Media (includes a 3.5mm mic, HDMI out ports and hot shoe mounts), Display (flip-up screen), and Light (LED light). Price: $399.99 Contact: www.gopro.com NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 97
THE NEW ISH DUCATI • REPLICA TEAM 19 PERFORATED LEATHER JACKET The Replica Team 19 leather jacket is a replica of the official Ducati team livery for MotoGP 2019. Produced in a limited edition by Alpinestars exclusively for Ducati, it is made of durable 1.3 mm thick cowhide leather. The numerous elasticized inserts favor movement and riding comfort, as do the pre-curved sleeves and low-profile collar. The jacket is fully CE certified according to the latest standards, has GP-R protectors on the shoulders and elbows, and has pockets for back and chest protectors (not included). Sizes: 48 - 60 Price: $949.00 Contact: www.ducatiusa.com
CARDO SYSTEMS • FREECOM 2+ AND JBL SPEAKERS BUNDLE FREECOM 2+ is the ultimate 2-way, mid-range Bluetooth communication system. Incredibly flat design, tough waterproof shell, and immersive sound are all included in the price. The world's best-selling 2-way communication system has increased its range to 0.3 miles and has the ability to connect to any Bluetooth headset. Achieving good audio quality inside a motorcycle helmet is demanding. The wind, the road, the engine, and the type of helmet, all affect the frequencies you hear. With that in mind, the 45 mm JBL speakers combine the sound only a large-diameter driver can provide, with a narrow, 42mm base that can fit almost every modern helmet.
YAMAHA • WOMEN'S CLASSIC FULL-ZIP HOODED SWEATSHIRT For all of the Yamaha ladies out there, the Women's Yamaha Classic Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt offers a great option to represent the brand, as part of the Yamaha Classic Collection. The zippered hooded sweatshirt features a cotton/polyester construction with full zip and hood, the Yamaha logo and a woven Yamaha branded label on the pocket. Sizes: S – XXL Colors: Black/Pink, White/Pink Price: $39.99 Contact: www.yamaha.com 98 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
Price: $209.95 Contact: www.cardosystems.com
MOTION PRO • 9 PIECE BALL END HEX SET A new set of ball end hex wrenches is always welcomed to any rider's toolbox. This Motion Pro 9 piece set is made of chromevanadium tool steel and includes the following sizes: 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 10mm. The ball end allows for better access to hex socket bolts with up to a 25-degree working angle. Price: $20.99 Contact: www.motionpro.com
ALPINESTARS • STELLA SMX PLUS V2 BOOT Fully optimized for a female fit, the Stella SMX Plus v2 Boot perfectly blends sleek sports styling with advanced protection features developed in Alpinestars performance footwear department. The durable and light microfiber upper is reinforced with a rugged polymer protector and the exclusive Multi-Link Control (MLC) system prevents ankle torsion while offering freedom of movement. Sizes: 36 - 43 Price: $369.95 Contact: www.alpinestars.com NORTON MOTORSPORTS • NINJA400R RACE SPEC CLUTCH UPGRADE KIT There are a number of issues with the Ninja 400's OEM clutch and shifting. This kit replaces several key OEM components with upgraded parts to tighten up the mushy clutch feel and stop the clutch from slipping when it shouldn't, eliminate miss-shifts from the sloppy OEM shift parts, and reduce or eliminate the chance of false neutrals. It also includes our clutch shaft spacer to protect the shift shaft in the event of a left-side crash. Kit includes a clutch/shaft spring and spacer kit, Barnett heavy dutch clutch springs, heavy-duty shift detent spring, and Race Spec shift star. Prices: $349.95 Contact: www.norton-motorsports.com NOVEMBER 2019 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 99
THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM ARAI HELMETS • NICKY-7 CORSAIR-X HELMET Nicky fans from around the world have long been asking for Arai to bring back one of the most popular Nicky Hayden replicas, the Nicky Laguna. Nicky wore the original custom Laguna design at the Laguna Seca MotoGP in 2005, where he won his first MotoGP! The original replica was then released in 2006 to tremendous reaction, worldwide. Perhaps the most fabled name in the entire Arai lineup, the Corsair has long been renowned as one of the most advanced, highest quality helmets available anywhere in the world. It represents the culmination of Arai's vast experience in helmet design and unwavering focus on rider protection. And with features like the ingenious VAS shield mechanism, dramatically improved air flow and ventilation, and an antimicrobial EcoPure liner, the Corsair-X has certainly earned its place as our flagship model. The Corsair line has long been renowned as one of the most advanced, highest quality helmets available anywhere in the world. The Corsair-X features the ingenious VAS shield system, dramatically improved air flow and ventilation, an antimicrobial Eco-Pure liner, and a shell that's made up of more than 20 different materials, including proprietary materials developed by Arai. The Corsair-X has earned its place as Arai's flagship model. Sizes: XS - XXL Price: $979.95 Contact: www.araiamericas.com 100 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2019
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