OCTOBER 2021 VOL 12 ISSUE 1
S P O RT B I K E S I N C M AG . CO M
YAMAHA
GT
TRACER 9
A G E N E R AT I O N A L S H I F T H A S O C C U R R E D
THE ALL NEW
20 22
ARE YOU READY?
Developed with Suzuki’s Intelligent Ride System, the third generation Hayabusa is engineered to explore the absolute limits of its potential... and yours. Delivering unparalleled control and rideability, the all-new Hayabusa is ready. Are you ready for it?
EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING THE NEW HAYABUSA HAS TO OFFER AT
SUZUKICYCLES.COM/HAYABUSA
Model shown with optional accessories. Professional rider on closed-course. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © 2021 Suzuki Motor USA, LLC
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CONTENTS
OCTOBER 2021 - VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 http://issuu.com/action/page?page=12 12 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14 14 THE PRESS ROOM http://issuu.com/action/page?page=52 52 THE GRID NEWS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=68 68 FEATURED RIDERS http://issuu.com/action/page?page=76 76 THE NEW ISH
FEATURED RIDER: KENDRA GUNTER http://issuu.com/action/page?page=68 PAGE: 68
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FEATURES
OCTOBER 2021 - VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1 THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS
14.
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=14
YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT FIRST RIDE REVIEW
24
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=24
KAWASAKI H2 SX SE+ FIRST RIDE REVIEW
38
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=38
THE GP SHUFFLE
58
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=58
THE NEW ISH
76
http://issuu.com/action/page?page=76
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STAFF PUBLISHER//EDITOR IN CHIEF: Allan Lane allan@sportbikesincmag.com
EDITORIAL STAFF WRITERS: B.T. bt@sportbikesincmag.com Devonne Duerbaum devonne@sportbikesincmag.com COPY EDITOR: Stacey Lane stacey@sportbikesincmag.com CONTRIBUTORS: Peter Jackson
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: Ray Gauger CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Brian J Nelson, Ray Gauger, MotoGP.com
SportBikes Inc Magazine - October 2021 Volume 12, Issue 1 To receive SportBikes Inc Magazine’s 2022 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.
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U N L E A S H YO U R I N N E R D E M O N
With an all-new 177 HP, 1160cc triple engine the Speed Triple 1200 RS is the most powerful, highest torque and fastest accelerating Speed Triple ever, and at 22 lbs lighter, and with premium track specification equipment, it’s the most agile, precise, dynamic and responsive handling Speed Triple ever too. Add all-new TFTs, quickshifter, optimized cornering ABS and traction control, 5 riding modes and connectivity system as standard and it’s the ultimate performance naked sport bike. The new Speed Triple 1200 RS – Triple Powered Transformation - Starting from $18,300.00 Discover more at TriumphMotorcycles.com
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FEATURE STORY
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YAMAHA
GT
TRACER 9
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FROM THE EDITOR
MISSING OUT I have not ridden nearly as much ADV or Touring bikes as I should have at this point in my life. I need to change that. I've always been a sportbike rider and only in my recent older years, have I embraced my cruisers. But while I have not indulged in the ADV or Touring scene as much as I should have, my interest and curiosity have always been peaked.
urban commute, the weekend back road jaunt or even the long highway haul. I don't know what my problem is. I'm missing out. And to be clearly honest, the ADV and Touring segment of our industry is doing extremely well and I couldn't think of a better two-wheeled class of bikes to get me through the late fall, winter, and early spring rides. I need to make some phone calls.
Bikes like the Ducati Multistrada, the HarleyDavidson Pan America, or the Yamaha Tracer Enjoy the issue. 9 GT that is featured in this issue, seem like the most fun you can have on two wheels Best, away from the track, perfectly suited for the Allan 12 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2021
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
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THE PRESS ROOM
INDUSTRY NEWS KAWASAKI NINJA ZX-6R 2022 - FIRST LOOK
THE NINJA ZX-6R RETURNS TO THE KAWASAKI 2022 SUPERSPORT MODEL LINEUP WITH NEW COLOR OPTIONS AND PERFORMANCE ENHANCEMENTS.
system that features 38mm Keihin long throttle bodies that increase the distance between the main dual throttle and sub throttle valves to optimize throttle response.
Ready for both street and track duties, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R reappears in the 2022 supersport lineup. The powerplant of the 2022 model remains its 636cc ultra-compact, low friction engine highlighted by its tri-axis crankshaft and transmission shaft layout, and the exhaust pre-chamber that is located below it that collectively centralize the mass of the motorcycle.
Big 37mm piston separate function inverted adjustable Showa forks handle suspension duties at the front end while a Uni-Trak set up composes the rear, with an adjustable Showa single shock.
The high volume central ram air induction air box has longer intake funnels, boosting peak power, smooth power delivery and providing a straight line of air induction to the airbox. The 2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has a digital fuel injection
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Radial mounted Nissin monobloc four-piston front calipers with 310mm front discs work with radial-pump front master cylinders and a single Nissin caliper with a 30mm piston comprises the braking system of the 2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. Equipped with the Kawasaki Quick Shifter, the Ninja ZX6R can make clutchless upshifts, as the system recognizes when the shift lever has been engaged and sends a signal
to the ECU to cut the ignition to shift into the next gear. There is a list of riding aids that the Kawasaki Ninja ZX6R offer, highlighted by the full and low power modes, a three-mode traction control system, and the Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock brake system. The 2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is available in lime
green/ebony/pearl blizzard white, metallic matte twilight blue/metallic diablo black and metallic matte graphene steel gray/metallic diablo black with an MSRP of $10,499. The non-ABS Ninja ZX-6R KRT Edition is available in a Lime Green/Ebony/Pearl Blizzard White colorway with an MSRP of $10,799, and the KRT Edition ABS model will retail for $11,799. OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 15
THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS THE PAN AMERICA 1250 SPECIAL SNATCHES THE #1 ADV SPOT
HARLEY-DAVIDSON REPORTS THAT ITS PAN AMERICA 1250 SPECIAL IS THE NUMBER ONE SELLING ADVENTURE TOURING MOTORCYCLE IN NORTH AMERICA. Sales for the Harley-Davidson Pan America have been quite impressive since the motorcycle was launched in February of 2021. So impressive, in fact, that the Milwaukee outfit is reporting that its H-D Pan America 1250 Special is the number one selling adventure touring motorcycle in North America. “Taking inspiration from our heritage, we wanted to create a motorcycle that redefined the adventure touring category and most importantly was designed
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and built in America. With the Pan America Special now the #1 selling ADV motorcycle model in North America, we targeted a selective expansion into adventure touring as part of the Hardwire Strategy with the goal to reach new and existing Harley-Davidson customers. Pan America is squarely built on our mission to deliver a timeless pursuit of adventure for our riders. Those who now own or have tested one of our Pan America’s absolutely love this bike - having sold out of our 2021 allocation, we are excited about what the future has in store for Pan America and for the Adventure Touring category at Harley-Davidson.” Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, CEO and President, HarleyDavidson.
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THE PRESS ROOM: INDUSTRY NEWS SUZUKI GSX-S1000GT - FIRST LOOK
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SUZUKI UNVEILS ITS FIRST HIGH-PERFORMANCE presents great leverage for the GSX-S1000GT's SPORT TOURING MOTORCYCLE, THE 2022 on the road handling. The bars have a special GSX-S1000GT. rubber mounting that dampens vibrations that, in harmony with the rubber inserts in the footrests, The Suzuki GSX-S1000GT is a new model, a first assist in battling rider fatigue, especially on longer for the Japanese manufacturer, as they high step highway rides. into the Sport Touring class of cycles. Equipped with a 999cc, 4-stroke, liquid-cooled, 4-cylinder, The electronic suite of rider aids is presented in the DOHC superbike engine, the GSX-S1000GT is Suzuki Intelligent Ride System (SIRS). The system host to a suite of technology and rider aids to includes electronic cruise control, five modes of enhance the ride, for the short run and the long adjustable traction control, up and down clutchless haul. quick-shifting, low RPM assist and Suzuki's Easy Start System. With the Suzuki GSX-R engine platform as a base, the GSX-S1000GT's powerplant has All pertinent bike data is displayed on a new been updated with revised intake and exhaust 6.5 inch full color TFT LCD screen: Speedometer camshafts, cam chain tensioners and valve (digital), RPM indicator (shift light), Tachometer springs, as well as a redesigned clutch and (analog format), Transmission gear position, gearshift elements. Fuel gauge, Coolant temperature, Ambient air temperature, Cruise control setting, SDMS mode, The framework of the new Suzuki GSX-S1000GT Traction control mode, Quick Shift (ON/OFF), is a twin-spar aluminum structure with a braced Voltmeter, Clock (12-hour format), Odometer, swingarm and trellis-styled subframe that can Dual trip meter, Average fuel consumption (Trip accommodate the 36-liter side cases that come 1 & 2), Instant fuel consumption, Riding range standard on the GSX-S1000GT+, optional on the (per fuel onboard), Smartphone battery level, base GSX-S1000GT. Smartphone connection status, and Riderpassenger intercommunication status (Bluetooth®). At the front end of the GSX-S1000GT, fully adjustable, inverted KYB front forks handle An additional feature of the new TFT dash is the suspension duties, while an adjustable single smartphone connectivity for the Suzuki mySPIN shock manages the rear end. Brake duties fall app, transforming the whole of the dash into a upon the dual front, ABS-equipped, radial- "smart cockpit" that provides riding and motorcycle mounted four-piston Brembo calipers with 310mm updates. Available for IOS and Andriod platforms, floating rotors and a rear Nissin, single-piston, the mySPIN app is specifically designed for bikesingle disc, ABS-equipped caliper. to-rider applicability, allowing access to your phone, contacts, call logs, maps, calendars, music Ergonomically, the GSX-S1000GT is engineered and other content. as a premium cocktail of form and function. Regardless of the length of the ride, the specs of The 2022 Suzuki GSX-S1000GT will be the bike are designed to provide optimum comfort available in Metallic Reflective Blue and Glass for both rider and passenger. A highlight of the Sparkle Black, with an MSRP of $13,149 for comfort concept is the wide stance, cast aluminum the base GSX-S1000GT and $13,799 for the handlebar which has a comfortable reach and GSX-S1000GT+. OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 19
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MSRP@ $3
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WHERE R WORLD MEETS YOURS.
2021 RWORLD LOGO
2 0 2 2 Y Z F® - R 7 A new generation Supersport for the next generation of rider. The all-new YZF-R7 combines Yamaha’s legendary styling with an ultra-thin and lightweight chassis and an advanced CP2 engine that provides torquey performance on both the track and the street. YamahaMotorsports.com Professional riders on a closed course. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Dress properly for your ride with a helmet, eye protection, riding jacket or long sleeve shirt, long pants, gloves and boots. Some models shown are modified to a racing specification and intended for closed course circuit use only. Yamaha and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation encourage you to ride safely and respect the environment. For further information regarding the MSF course, call 1-800-446-9227. ©2021 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.
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YAMAHA
GT
TRACER 9
YAMAHA HAS TAKEN THEIR VENERABLE TRACER 900 GT AND GIVEN IT THE FULL TREATMENT, INCLUDING A NAME CHANGE. WORDS: PETER JACKSON IMAGES: RAY GAUGER
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THE FIRST RIDE: YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT
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YAMAHA’S TRACER RANGE dates back to 2015 when we saw the first derivative of the MT-09 platform. The-then named FJ-09 proved a massive hit — a beautiful mixture of snarly three-cylinder rage combined with a gentleman’s touring attire. A bit like the headbanger who finally grew up. The FJ remained untouched until 2019 when it was renamed the Tracer 900 GT. That iteration wasn’t so much a redesign as it was a facelift, coming with new bodywork, 30L bags as standard fitment, a new dash, heated grips, better suspension, and, hallelujah, cruise control.
The new motor is more than just a capacity increase. A new intake, cylinder head, camshafts, 3 mm longer stroke crank, 1.5 mm shorter fracture-split conrods, and new exhaust, plus reworked settings for the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T), combine to give a claimed six percent increase in overall torque, and a claimed nine percent better fuel economy.
Fast forward to 2022, however, and the $14,899 MSRP Tracer 900 GT has been given a full makeover. Now dubbed the Tracer 9 GT (stop renaming the bike, Yamaha!), this brand new beast gets a new motor bumped from 847 cc to 890 cc, a new chassis wrapped in all new and sadly uglier bodywork, a massive split TFT dash, IMUbased electronics, cornering headlights and KYB’s first crack at semi-active suspension.
On the road, the new engine is miles ahead of the 2020 edition. The extra capacity gives the motor a bit more room to breathe — you’re not constantly searching for the next cog but letting the torque do the talking. Matched to a lovely up and down quick shift as standard, the motor and gearbox package feels more refined. The initial throttle opening is smooth and light, but there’s plenty of go on offer if you decide to turn up the wick.
This is Yamaha’s attack on bigger bikes like the BMW S 1000 XR or the Kawasaki Versys 1000, slotting in nicely when compared on price and features offered.
The new motor is supported by an improved chassis that loves to get on its side as much as tourer in comfort. Yamaha is claiming a massive 50 percent increase in lateral rigidity
The transmission gets a redesign as well, with a taller first and second gear and a new slip and assist clutch to keep it all in line under braking when downshifting.
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THE FIRST RIDE: YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT
THIS IS A TOURING BIKE THAT LOVES A GOOD SCRATCH BUT EQUALLY CAN PLAY THE LONG GAME WELL. 28 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2021
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THE FIRST RIDE: YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT
The electronic suspension isn’t the most advanced out there but it does the job just fine. Monitored by the IMU, you get semiactive compression and rebound adjustment on the fork and rebound only on the shock, with preload done by the hand dial under This is where the new electronics of the Tracer the seat. 9 GT come into force. I spent the majority of the time in the A2 mode (softer) for the KYB If you’re new to electronic suspension on your electronic suspension after I found A1 was only ride, this is a great starting point as you can’t suited to billiard smooth roads. A1 is quite stiff, get too lost in the settings like on a Panigale and you’ll begin to feel the pounding of the V4, for example. road a lot quicker if you spend more than an hour in this mode. In A2 suspension with the This is a touring bike that loves a good scratch throttle, traction control, wheelie, and slide but equally can play the long game well. control (yes, it has slide control) all on level Raising the seat height to the taller 32.5 inches one, the 1.5-lb lighter wheels and the excellent (from the base of 31.9 inches) height gave Bridgestone Battlax T32 GT rubber fitted, me a touch more room to move, but I ran out made the Yamaha the perfect dance partner of time to really explore the options available up the notorious Angeles Crest just out of LA. like altering the position of the handlebar and footpegs. Yamaha’s done really well with the swingarm now mounted within the frame, a feeling which is transmitted to the rider by exceptional stability when cranked over and you begin to feed the power in at speed.
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THE FIRST RIDE: YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT
THE $14,899 MSRP TRACER 9 GT MAKES A VERY COMPELLING ARGUMENT WHEN YOU TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION ALL THE STUFF YOU GET AS STANDARD, LIKE THE QUICK SHIFTER, CRUISE CONTROL, HEATED GRIPS, PLENTY OF RIDE POSITION ADJUSTABILITY.
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THE FIRST RIDE: YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT
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to give the rider plenty of options for cockpit corner, which is a pain in the ass. If you could customizing, which is the kind of thing many customize the dash and put the various pieces other manufacturers make you pay extra for. of info where you want, this would be the best dash on the market. Yamaha’s fitted a linked braking system to the GT, which takes some time to get used Regardless, Yamaha’s done exceptionally to because if you only use the rear brake, well with the new GT. Linked brakes aside, for example, you’ll feel the front brake lever the $14,899 MSRP Tracer 9 GT makes a depress slightly. In my eyes, the linked system very compelling argument when you take into is too linked, and I’d have much preferred to consideration all the stuff you get as standard, have a traditional unlinked version available. like the quick shifter, cruise control, heated grips, plenty of ride position adjustability. An interesting point is the dash. This is the first (as far as I know) split dash on the market It looks like Yamaha’s got a bit of competition today, and it takes a bit to get used to. With in this department from homeboys Suzuki with speed and revs on the left and general rider their recently released GSX-S1000 GT, and info on the right, it’s a funky way to space the we might just be on the edge of a new golden available information out although the one era in sporty touring bikes from the Land of the thing I need almost as much as my speedo, Rising Sun. a clock, is mounted way down in the left OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 35
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KAWASAKI H2 SX SE
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KAWASAKI’S PLAINLY LUDICROUS SUPERCHARGED H2 GETS A SHIRT AND TIE AND TRIES TO BE SOMEWHAT PRESENTABLE. WORDS: PETER JACKSON OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 39
THE FIRST RIDE: KAWASAKI H2 SX SE +
EARLIER IN THE year, I tested what I can only describe as the most clinically insane motorcycle on the market today in the Kawasaki Z H2 naked bike. I came away from that test quite convinced it was too much bike (at least for me) despite my love of horsepower and the stupid things you can do with it. Fast forward six months and I’ve just given back the H2 SX SE +, which conversely I can describe as one of the very best motorcycles on the market today. Confused? Yeah, me too. The H2 SX SE + is a full fairing and bags version of the Z H2, with a few geometry and mapping changes to calm things down. It’s like the Z H2’s dad — he was a party animal back in the day but now he runs a business and wears a tie. However, there are still teeth when you need them. The SX’s supercharged inline four-cylinder engine pumps out close to 170 hp at the wheel, with torque a stout 86 lb-ft. That means more than enough go for any type of riding situation, but the manner in which it is delivered is more metered, more considered than the Z H2 could ever be. Kick the SX in the balls and you better hang on, because a supercharged superbike is nuts by
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THE FIRST RIDE: KAWASAKI H2 SX SE +
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definition, even if it’s lugged with massive side cases. But there’s a strange phenomenon at play with the SX in that it doesn’t actually feel that fast. It is that fast, but the manner in which it conveys speed to the rider is not as mind-warping as you might believe. Part of this is down to the longer wheelbase and shorter seat height over the naked bike Z, and the all-encompassing bodywork. At speed on the freeway, the SX is a stable green bullet. It slices through the air with such ease and soaks up so much of the road corrugations via the new semi-active KYB suspension that it can make the ride as relaxing or mental as you like. With a claimed wet weight of 577 pounds, this is no featherweight, but the motorcycle hides its girth extremely well. You’ll feel the weight if you get sloppy with your riding and slap the SX into corners like a 600, jamming on the Brembo fourpiston monobloc Stylema calipers with abandon, but treat the SX like a two-wheeled version of the BMW M7 and you’ll get far more out of the ride. This is a luxury ride from Kawasaki, reflected in the eye-catching $25,500 MSRP price tag. It’s the kind of cash you could expect to pay for a Ducati superbike or a fully race-prepped ZX10RR, but the quality in the finish from the self-
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THE FIRST RIDE: KAWASAKI H2 SX SE +
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IT’S LIKE THE Z H2’S DAD — HE WAS A PARTY ANIMAL BACK IN THE DAY BUT NOW HE RUNS A BUSINESS AND WEARS A TIE. HOWEVER, THERE ARE STILL TEETH WHEN YOU NEED THEM.
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THE FIRST RIDE: KAWASAKI H2 SX SE +
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THE FIRST RIDE: KAWASAKI H2 SX SE +
healing metallic flake paint to the visceral nature of the motor and the poise of the chassis thanks to the electric KYB suspension warrants such money. Of course, there are multiple, programmable riding modes and adjustable levels of suspension stiffness you can play with, plus cruise control, up and down quickshifter, cornering ABS and cornering lights, LED main beams and you can pair your phone with the dash so you can see who’s ringing and not pick up. Unfortunately, the screen is unadjustable, which isn’t as big a problem for me because for once this is a screen height and shape that directs the wind over my helmet instead of into it. Another downer is the indicators are not self-canceling. Both these problems should not exist on a bike costing this much, but there were bound to be a few flaws somewhere. Overall, though, the H2 SX SE+ is a hell of a bike. It’s got way more character than the Concours and it’s comfier than the ZX-14 ever could be, making it the big daddy as far as Kawasaki sport touring bikes go in my book. It was a sad day when I gave this one back to Kawasaki, I can tell you that.
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THE PRESS ROOM
GRID NEWS
NICKY HAYDEN INDUCTED INTO THE MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME
BROTHER ROGER HAYDEN RECEIVES THE HONOR ON BEHALF OF THE HAYDEN FAMILY AS THE KENTUCKY LEGEND, NICKY HAYDEN IS INDUCTED INTO THE MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME 2021 CLASS.
Kicking off the ceremony, Roger rode a Repsol edition Honda CBR 1000RR lap of honor, carrying the American flag, as Nicky so often would do after a race victory.
The 2006 MotoGP Champion, Nicky Hayden is now a Motorsports Hall of Famer after an induction ceremony held in Pontiac, Michigan at the M1 Concourse. With the Hayden family in attendance, Nicky was inducted into the 2021 class, with his younger brother, Roger Hayden accepting the accolades in honor of his older brother, presented by Nicky's former Honda team manager, Gary Mathers.
"On behalf of the entire motorcycling community, congratulations to the Hayden family for this prestigious recognition of Nicky's accomplishments on and off the track. The Kentucky Kid will always occupy a place in our hearts – as a racer, but especially as a person – and we're pleased that the Hall of Fame also recognizes how exceptional he was." - Bill Savino, Senior Manager of Customer Engagement at American Honda.
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MOTOAMERICA 2022 SUPERBIKE SCHEDULE MotoAmerica releases their 10 round, 20 race supported by the Supersport, Junior Cup, Stock 1000, Twins Cup, Motul Mini Cup, King of the 2022 Superbike schedule. Baggers and Royal Enfield's Build. Train. Race. The MotoAmerica 2022 Superbike schedule gets program. started in Austin, Texas as part of the yet to be scheduled MotoGP Red Bull Grand Prix of the “It’s always good to get the schedule out as early Americas weekend at the Circuit of the Americas, as possible so our teams, sponsors and fans can in April of 2022. The season wraps up Barber make their plans for 2022. We’re happy with next Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama, over year’s schedule as we’re set to return to COTA with the weekend of September 23 through 25. MotoGP as well as returning to all the facilities that have become such integral parts of our series. From round one through round ten, the series will Ten Superbike rounds and 20 races makes for a travel across North America, hitting up the best well-rounded championship and we’re looking forward to our best season yet in 2022.” - Wayne road circuits that the U.S. has to offer. Rainey, MotoAmerica President. The MotoAmerica 2022 Superbikes series will be 2022 MOTOAMERICA SUPERBIKE SCHEDULE *April Circuit of The Americas MotoGP Austin, TX April 22-24 Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Braselton, GA May 20-22 VIRginia International Raceway Alton, VA June 3-5 Road America Elkhart Lake, WI June 24-26 Ridge Motorsports Park Shelton, WA **July 8-10 WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Monterey, CA July 29-31 Brainerd International Raceway Brainerd, MN Aug. 19-21 Pittsburgh International Race Complex Wampum, PA Sept. 9-11 New Jersey Motorsports Park Millville, NJ Sept. 23-25 Barber Motorsports Park Birmingham, AL *To Be Determined **To Be Confirmed
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THE PRESS ROOM: THE GRID NEWS MOTOAMERICA HOSTS DAYTONA 200 IN 2022 DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY AND MOTOAMERICA COLLAB AND HOST THE 80TH RUNNING OF THE DAYTONA 200. MotoAmerica is officially set to host the 80th running of the Daytona 200 in 2022. The new partnership with Daytona International Speedway will breathe some new life into the prestigious annual race. Spectator attendance has suffered in recent years and the pandemic certainly did not help. New rules will be applied for the Daytona 200 and will open the field of competition to include a broad array of middleweight machines such as the Triumph 765, Ducati Panigale V2, MV Agusta F3, Yamaha YZF-R6, Suzuki GSX-R600 and Kawasaki ZX-6R. Competitors will still be allowed to select their own choice of tire for the race.
Baggers Championship. Yep! The baggers are going to run the high banks of Daytona. “The DAYTONA 200 is known worldwide to be one of the most exciting motorcycle races in the world,” said MotoAmerica President Wayne Rainey, who won the DAYTONA 200 in 1987. “We are proud to work with Daytona International Speedway, the AMA and FIM North America organizations to continue to enhance the prominence of the DAYTONA 200. With the new DAYTONA 200 rules in place, we are hopeful that this will open the door to more manufacturers and teams joining us in March. It’ll be a great way to start off the 2022 season. And, wow, Baggers on the high banks! What a spectacle that will be. Obviously, this is MotoAmerica’s first trip to Daytona, and it’s my first trip back to the Speedway since 2008. I’m looking forward to what is going to be a really cool weekend.”
The Daytona 200 will not be part of the 2022 MotoAmerica hosts the 80th running of the Daytona MotoAmerica Supersport race schedule. However, it 200 at Daytona International Speedway, March 10 will be the opening round of the 2022 MotoAmerica - 12, 2022. Twin Cups Championship and the King Of The
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THE RNF MOTOGP RACING TEAM
THE SEPANG RACING TEAM (SRT) WILL BE REBRANDED AS THE RNF MOTOGP RACING AT THE BEGINNING OF THE 2022 SEASON. After it was announced that Petronas was pulling their support of the SRT Yamaha team in the premier MotoGP class, the cards could loudly be heard shuffling in the SRT garage. As the dust settled and the hands were dealt, a new team arises. Well, sort of... The new RNF MotoGP Racing team is actually a restructured Sepang Racing Team. Team Principal, and former CEO of the Sepang International Circuit, Razlan Razali remains at the helm of the ship in a deal that commits the RNF MotoGP Racing team to grand prix racing through 2026, as an independent Yamaha team. Additionally, Andrea Dovizioso will continue on with the new team. The rest of the roster has not been confirmed. “It has been a whirlwind journey for us. In recent months, we have put all our efforts to reset, rebrand and relaunch as a fresh and stronger MotoGP team. I would like to thank Carmelo for his continued trust and confidence in
me to begin this second chapter with a newly rebuilt team competing in MotoGP’s premier class for the next five years. For the season ahead, under the new entity of RNF MotoGP Racing, the rebranded team will continue our blueprint that have proven success before. Expectations will be high and we will push hard to meet these aspirations. Equipped with the experience we gained and having achieved multiple highlights in the past, we look forward to the 2022 season as an even stronger team entry.” - Razlan Razali, RNF Racing Team Principal. “It is a pleasure to continue working and partnering with a team structure headed by Razlan Razali, under the new RNF MotoGP Racing. Our long working relationship has been exciting for both fans and the competition. I know Razlan is very passionate about this project and I’m sure we will continue to see great things from the new team in the upcoming season and beyond. Razlan has been a great asset to the MotoGP family since his days in Sepang, and has helped to grow the sport in Malaysia and across the important South East Asia region in general.” - Carmelo Ezpeleta, Dorna Sports CEO. OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 55
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THE GRID
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MAHA SRT
THE GP SHUFFLE FABIO QUARTARARO WILL BE JOINED BY NEW TEAMMATE, FRANCO MORBIDELLI WHO LEAVES PETRONAS YAMAHA SRT FOR MONSTER ENERGY YAMAHA IN 2022. ROSSI RETIRES. VINALES MOVES TO APRILIA. THE RETURN OF ANDREA DOVIZIOSO?
WORDS: ALLAN LANE OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 59
THE GRID: THE GP SHUFFLE
THE GP SHUFFLE in the Yamaha garages has seemed to settle. In recent weeks, Maverick Vinales and Monster Energy Yamaha agreed to end their agreements immediately. Vinales would later be announced as Aleix Espargaro's new teammate at Aprilia Racing Gresini Team. Valentino Rossi is hanging up his leathers at the end of the season and Franco Morbidelli is moving up to take the factory seat, recently vacated by
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Vinales, now creating a void at Petronas Yamaha SRT. So, who's riding for Petronas Yamaha Sepang Racing Team for the rest of the 2021 season? Enter Andrea Dovizioso… better yet, cue the return of Andrea Dovizioso. Dovi was test riding for Aprilia, that was until the recent announcement that Vinales
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THE GRID: THE GP SHUFFLE
ENTER ANDREA DOVIZIOSO… BETTER YET, CUE THE RETURN OF ANDREA DOVIZIOSO.
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THE GRID: THE GP SHUFFLE
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was officially taking the seat. The word settles things for the remainder of 2021. around the Dyno room was that Dovi was talking with Petronas Yamaha SRT. However, there is still the big news that Petronas will end their support for the Johan Stigefelt, Petronas SRT Team SRT at the end of the 2021 season. Director said, "We are looking into To which Yamaha SRT has decided to options and it is something we intend to conclude its Moto2 and Moto3 efforts keep for ourselves and we will announce so it can focus on its top-class program. soon the next steps.” Word around the Dyno room is that the Petronas Yamaha SRT Moto3 pilot Next steps? More like running as it is now Brad Binder is of interest to move up confirmed that Petronas Yamaha SRT and to the premier class in 2022, to take a Andrea Dovizioso agreed that the Italian seat at what will be the newly formed will saddle up for the team, with Rossi independent Yamaha SRT. beginning at the Misano round. So that
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PURE. MAGNIFICENT. MUSCLE. THE ULTIMATE HIGH PERFORMANCE MUSCLE ROADSTER. In a world-leading class of its own, the Rocket 3 R is a genuine motorcycle legend. Setting a benchmark for handling and character, the Rocket 3 R delivers instantaneous world-leading torque and incredible control, comfort and capability. Combining the world’s highest production motorcycle torque – 163 LB-FT @ 4,000rpm, produced by the world’s largest production motorcycle engine, together with an incredibly high specification of equipment and technology, the Rocket 3 R offers an unparalleled thrilling riding experience for all day, any gear, effortless capability. On top of its unbeatable performance, the Rocket 3 R has an incredible pure muscular presence and magnificent style, together with beautiful details and an unparalleled finish. Find out more, visit TriumphMotorcycles.com
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TM
Rearsets - since 1996 “Great looking and STRONG. This is the first upgrade to all my bikes” - M.A. “I love the footpeg position! Plus, the pegs have great grip & didn’t destroy my boots” - G.A. Don’t let a small crash end your track day or race! Woodcraft rearsets are made in the USA and engineered to give your bike the best chance to survive a crash. Designed with trademark features that make repairs both easier and less expensive. Available trackside and at top dealers nationwide!
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
Kendra Gunter LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA OCCUPATION: Finance. YEARS RIDING: 4 years. RIDING STYLE: Street and Track. Hopefully I’ll be stunting a lilttle bit next year. BIKE/S OWNED: 2021 Ducati Panigale V4 and 2016 Kawasaki ZX-6R KRT. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Definitely the pipes. Nothing beats a beautiful sounding bike. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: To the hospital after I received the news that my brother was in a very bad motorcycle accident.
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Natalie Evelyn Fox LOCATION: Vancouver, British Columbia OCCUPATION: Business and Real Estate. YEARS RIDING: 2.5 years. RIDING STYLE: Street and track. BIKE/S OWNED: 2018 Triumph Street Triple RS. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: The TFT dash and Ohlins suspension that both come stock on my bike. FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: My Shoei X14 helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The Duffy Lake Loop. A 10 plus hours ride with gorgeous views and nice twisties.
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THE LIFE: FEATURED RIDERS
Steve Bannister LOCATION: Leeds, United Kingdom OCCUPATION: Gas Auditor. YEARS RIDING: 25 years riding. Owned 28 superbikes in that time. RIDING STYLE: Road riding and track days. Favourite road is “Buttertubs Pass” Yorkshire Dales. BIKE/S OWNED: Amputee rider for 2 years from near fatal road accident on a 2005 Yamaha R1 in May of 2019. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: Puig crash bars. They saved my bike when I needed it! FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Alpinestars SMX Plus boots. Had pair on in the accident and the surgeon said from my shin down on the leg they removed was unmarked. Good enough for me to get another pair. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: Obviously December 5, 2019. A day I’ll never forget. 13:40. Oh shit! Bang!
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Vittoria A. LOCATION: Reading, PA OCCUPATION: Registered Dental Hygienist. YEARS RIDING: 4 months. RIDING STYLE: Street for the moment. BIKE/S OWNED: 2007 Suzuki GSX-R750. FAVORITE BIKE MODIFICATION/ACCESSORY: I haven't spiced it up yet! FAVORITE PIECE OF RIDING GEAR: Namaskar ScorpionEXO helmet. MOST MEMORABLE RIDE: The very first day I got it! Riding in circles around the parking lot in the freezing cold!
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THE NEW ISH REV'IT! • SHADE H2O JACKET The Shade H2O is designed after the Rev'It! Eclipse jacket and is for those who are looking for an entry-level, waterproof, back-to-basics riding motorcycle jacket. The Shade H2O is not too tight and not too loose. It is very easy to combine with your favorite pants and motorcycle footwear. The Shade H2O protects you when wearing it riding around town but is also fashionable when you get off your bike and enter the city streets. Colors: Camo Light Grey, Dark Green, Blue, Black Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $239.99 Contact: https://www.revitsport.com
DRIVEN RACING • SINGLE SIDE PADDOCK STANDS All Driven stands are constructed from heavy duty steel to enhance strength and stability in a lightweight design package. All stands are white powder coated to improve weather resistance and are properly angled, designed to ensure easy lifting and dismount of your bike. Four plastic and rubber wheels with sealed bearings are standard for smooth and stable rolling on all surfaces. Plastic knobs are provided for easy adjustment of front and rear stands. All hardware is zinc plated.
DAINESE • NEXUS 2 LADY BOOTS The Dainese Nexus 2 Lady women's sport motorcycle boots with certified protectors, specially designed to support the contours of the female foot. Made of microfiber and D-Stone and with nylon inserts at the heel, they are equipped with replaceable thermoplastic sliders, the Axial Distortion Control ankle joint bending System, and protective nylon inserts on the heel, and they represent the perfect mix of high protection, maximum comfort, and lightness. Colors: Black, Acqua-Green, Anthracite Sizes: 36 - 42 Price: $299.95 Contact: https://www.dainese.com 76 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2021
Price: $199.99 Contact: https://www.drivenracing.com
BROCK'S PERFORMANCE • 2022 SUZUKI HAYABUSA CUSTOM CORBIN SEAT Brock’s Performance pilot saddle greatly enhances the comfort of the bike by ergonomically dispersing your weight over a greater area. Built with Corbin's Comfort Cell foam to provide countless miles of supportive comfort, the exclusive foam material feels firm at first but doesn't break down like the stock foam. This keeps your body supported indefinitely for day long riding enjoyment. Engineered to fit perfect to the tank, chassis and tail section. The saddle is manufactured with a Fibertech basepan for an unsurpassed fit that rides on rubber bumpers to protect the motorcycle's paint job. To make installation easier, the saddle comes ready to install with premounted brackets. Price: $369.00 Contact: https://brocksperformance.com
HINDLE EXHAUST • KTM RC390 EVOLUTION 3/4 SYSTEM Lightweight and durable, Hindle Exhaust's thin gauge stainless steel headers are so light that the weight is comparable to many titanium systems sans the hefty price tag. The reduced weight of a Hindle system not only helps acceleration but it also helps with braking, cornering and even tire life. The mufflers are available in stainless steel, black ceramic, titanium or carbon fiber for most systems. All Hindle systems are still manufactured in North America. Price: $574.99 Contact: https://woodcraft-cfm.com
TWO BROTHERS RACING • YAMAHA R7/MT-07 DB PRO FULL SYSTEM The R7 exhaust system was developed to surpass what is offered on the market today. Engineered to compliment the quality and performance of Yamaha products, this handcrafted system delivers unparalleled sound and performance for the ultimate race experience. Stainless steel construction is complemented by a high temp carbon fiber end cap. Features include three tunable sound stages, tig welded headers and a spiral-wound perforated core. Price: $749.98 Contact: https://www.twobros.com
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THE NEW ISH ICON MOTOSPORTS • VARIANT PRO BUG CHUCKER HELMET The fog-free 3D-molded RST Red shield provides optical clarity across its oversized eye-port increasing peripheral vision, and the visor is designed to block the sun while reducing lift at speed. The Fiberglass, Dyneema, and Carbon matrix shell is wind-tunnel tested The 5-piece sweat-wicking HydraDry liner works in conjunction with the 8 air intakes, 2 exhaust ports and deep channeling to help reduce heat build-up. Sizes: XS - XXXL Price: $350.00 Contact: https://rideicon.com
WOODCRAFT-CFM • APRILIA RS 660 STATOR COVER PROTECTOR CNC machined from 6061 Aluminum billet, the Woodcraft-CFM Stator Cover Protector gives both great looks and exceptional strength with internally bolted replaceable skid plates. Woodcraft 2-piece engine covers are designed to offer replaceable stainless steel, or aluminum), skid plates that add wear resistance in the most vulnerable area and keep your bike oil tight in the event of a crash. This is an engine cover protector that bolts over the stator cover protecting the lower half that is vulnerable in a crash. JOE ROCKET • NOBLE GLOVE The Noble Glove from Joe Rocket features a utility grade stretch textile chassis with injection molded knuckle armor and contoured padding goatskin leather palm for comfort and vibration reduction. There is a Chamude overlay on the palm for additional protection and SmartTouch conductive material on index fingers for instant mobile friendly, touchscreen access. The ergonomic, pre-curved ride friendly design includes full flex expansion panels on the fingers and a neoprene cuff with TPR hook and loop closure Colors: Black, Red, Blue, Grey Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $39.99 Contact: http://www.joerocket.com 78 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | OCTOBER 2021
Price: $185.99 Contact: https://woodcraft-cfm.com
COMPETITION WERKES • KTM 390 DUKE FENDER ELIMINATOR The black powder coated over stainless steel fender eliminator kit relocates the license plate and stock turn signals. The included turn signal brackets fit stock and most aftermarket signals. Also in the box, you'll find a LED license plate light, instructions, decal and necessary hardware. Price: $119.95 Contact: https://www.competitionwerkes.com
ALPINESTARS • SP-8 HDRY GLOVES A fully waterproof and breathable sport riding glove, the SP-8 HDry Glove is constructed with advanced HDry membrane laminated technology to create a waterproof glove that offers the best feeling with the bike’s controls. Derived from Alpinestars’ iconic SP-8 gloves, this glove is constructed from a blend of goat leather and synthetic leather for lightweight and performance. Featuring dual density SP knuckle protection, a double closure system and multi-layer reinforcements with accordion and stretch zones, this weatherproof glove offers effective all-weather performance. Sizes: S - XXXL Price: $159.95 Contact: https://www.alpinestars.com
PUIG RACING • TRIUMPH TRIDENT 660 NEW GENERATION SPORT WINDSHIELD Renew the image of your bike with the New Generation Sport Windscreen from Puig. Manufactured in 3mm methacrylate, a material that guarantees high resistance to possible impacts and provides a great aerodynamic capacity, being insurmountable against the wind. Wind tunnel tested, the windshield adapts to the aesthetic line of the motorcycle, to improve aerodynamics and relieve the rider of wind effects when traveling at higher speeds. Colors: Smoke, Dark Smoke, Clear, Black. Price: $141.27 Contact: https://puigusa.com
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THE NEW ISH: FEATURED ITEM HJC HELMETS • RPHA 1N RED BULL AUSTIN GP
Designed developed after several years of focused efforts and crucial feedback from top world class athletes in MotoGP. HJC’s top engineers went to work and created a race-bred helmet that is truly worthy of top race circuits around the world. The RPHA 1 is the very same model used by HJC’s world-class athletes in both MotoGP and WorldSBK, and HJC is set to finally launch it into full production with FIM homologation.
Shock-Resistant performance for a more comfortable and lighter helmet. Inside, you'll find a removable moisture-wicking liner with advanced anti-bacterial fabric. For riders that wear glasses, you'll appreciate the incorporated glasses grooves. Other features of the RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP include fast release cheek pads that allow quick and safe removal in an emergency situation, breath deflector, chin curtain, tearoff film, Pinlock lens, aero spoiler and speaker pockets.
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The RPHA 1N Red Bull Austin GP has a Premium Integrated Matrix (PIM) shell that features reinforcement materials, including Carbon and Carbon-Glass Hybrid fabric, providing enhanced
Sizes: XXS - XXL Price: $949.99 Contact: https://www.hjchelmets.us
CORNERING LEARN THE SKILLS DISCOVER THE ART
Would you like to improve your riding skills? The California Superbike School trains riders at tracks worldwide in 14 countries. Its 38 year history has produced 140,000 graduates. Most riders have no clear idea of how good they really can be. Sign up for the California Superbike School and find out. www.superbikeschool.com OCTOBER 2021 | SPORTBIKESINCMAG.COM | 81
