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Bagnaia Ends Ducati’s 15-Year Title Drought, Crowned 2022 MotoGP World Champion

Despite finishing ninth in the 2022 MotoGP season-finale at Valencia but it was enough for Francesco Bagnaia to claimed his maiden MotoGP crown.

Francesco Bagnaia is the 2022 MotoGP world champion.
Bagnaia became the first Italian to win the MotoGP on an Italian bike, 50 years after Giacomo Agostini on an MV Agusta in 1972.

It was a nerve-racking moment for the Ducati rider after an endless overtaking at the start of the race with championship contender, Fabio Quartararo saw his right aero winglet flew off which resulted to his GP22 struggling on the track.

Bagnaia went from chasing the front row to easily getting past by Brand Binder, Joan Mir, Miguel Olveira, Luca Marini and Enea Bastianini before settling for ninth to ensure the 2022 title belongs to him thus ending Ducati’s 15-year title drought since Casey Stoner in 2007.

“When I passed the finish line I just saw the pit board that said I was the world champion and from that moment everything was lighter, more nice and it was incredible.

“My emotion is incredible at this moment.

“It wasn’t easy because in the fight with Fabio I lost a winglet and from that moment everything was a nightmare.

“Lap by lap I was trying to ride a defensive line but it was very, very hard.

“It took so long to finish the race but I’m very proud of my team, myself and the work that we did which was incredible,” said Bagnaia.

Bagnaia’s achievement also marked the greatest comeback in MotoGP history, as the Italian was 91 points down midway through the season. Bagnaia also emerged as the first Italian to win the championship on an Italian bike, 50 years after Giacomo Agostini who did it on a MV Agusta.

“I was feeling this weight on my shoulders to give back this title to all my team, to the manufacturer, to Ducati, to Italy,” added Bagnaia.

Meanwhile, the final round in Valencia saw Alex Rins took his heartfelt win for Suzuki Ecstar who is exiting the championship at the end of the season. Rins is moving to LCR Honda next season, as the Hamamatsu factory team is officially saying goodbye to the championship, for good.

Brad Binder secured a solid second while Jorge Martin, who despite started pole, finished third.

Hesketh To Debut Heresy 450 Single At EICMA 2022

Historic British motorcycle builder, Hesketh, is set to debut the Heresy 450 at EICMA, the company’s first-ever non-V-Twin motorcycle.

Hesketh to roll out the new Heresy 450 at EICMA show.
Featuring an all-new 450cc single-cylinder air/oil-cooled engine.

According to Hesketh, the Heresy 450 is heralded as the most technologically advanced motorcycle to date, featuring a single-cylinder engine with air/oil cooling.

The Heresy 450 marks the company’s first motorcycle to be powered by anything other than a bg-bore V-Twin.

In addition, the new powertrain also meets the latest Euro5 regulation. Meanwhile, the brake also features an ABS.

Powering the Heresy 450 is a 450cc single-cylinder engine similar to the one found in the Honda XR400 enduro motorcycle. That said, it is likely that the Hesketh Heresy 450 to make between 30 and 40hp on the road.

Other notable features include radially mounted brake callipers, K-Tech suspension and a hand-built frame that is unique to the brand.

More info is set to be revealed at EICMA show happening in Milan next week.

KTM AG Now Owns 25.1% Stake In MV Agusta

KTM AG now owns a large chunk of Italian motorcycle maker, MV Agusta after months of rumours circulating between the two brand.

KTM purchased 25.1% stake in MV Agusta.
KTM to distribute MV Agusta motorcycle and vice versa.

In an official statement released on Thursday, KTM AG has acquired a significant 21.1 per cent of the Varese-based company, just weeks after the two side entered a distribution agreement in North America.

The distribution deal was the strongest signal yet that KTM AG and MV Agusta has gotten into a bigger agreement than what was expected.

“Within the framework of this strategic partnership between the two European motorcycle manufacturers, KTM AG, a company of PIERER Mobility, will provide MV Agusta with supply chain support and take over the purchasing.

“Furthermore, in the course of this cooperation, MV Agusta will partly distribute its product range via PIERER Mobility’s worldwide distribution network.

“In November 2022, KTM AG will acquire a 25.1% stake in MV Agusta Motor S.p.A., based in Varese (Italy), by way of a capital increase,” said MV Agusta in a statement.

The new partnership will witness both sides helping each other out in terms of motorcycle distribution and supply chain support.

Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 To Go Live At EICMA 2022?

We’re just days away from EICMA 2022 which is set to open its doors next week in Milan.

The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 to make an appearance in Milan.
Powering the Super Meteor 650 is the firm’s 650cc parallel-twin engine.

Among those who are expected to make headlines is Indian motorcycle manufacturer, Royal Enfield.

It’s first official teaser has confirmed that Royal Enfield upcoming Super Meteor 650 cruiser is set to break cover at EICMA 2022 after unveiling the SG650 Concept during the 2021 edition.

https://youtu.be/V-CvJs4ZZVU

The unveiling is scheduled to happen on Tuesday, November 8, which is the first press day at EICMA and can be catch on Royal Enfield’s official YouTube channel.

Meanwhile, the teaser revealed the rear view of the upcoming Super Meteor 650 and while the green curtains brilliantly blocked some part of the motorcycle, we can clearly see the twin pipe setup similar to the 650 Twin (Interceptor and Continental GT).

Also visible is the twin rear shocks with black springs and a single round, red taillight.

However, it is yet to confirm whether the teased model is actually the upcoming Super Meteor or it could just be a misdirection.

Anyway, we’ll just have to wait and see.

FIRST LOOK: 2023 Triumph Street Triple R, RS And Moto2 Edition

Triumph Motorcycles has announced a more powerful Street Triple R and RS for 2023, with the introduction of a Moto 2 Edition limited to just 765 units.

The 2023 Street Triple is more powerful than ever.
The motorcycle features new engine internals, a higher combustion ratio and improved ergonomics.

Benefiting from the engine that powers the Moto2 World Championship, the Street Triple R and RS feature more power and improved rideability and ergonomics.

What’s new for 2023?

The R now makes 2hp more than the previous generation, with the power output rated at 118hp. However, the RS now boasts 128hp thanks to the higher compression ratio and new engine internals.

That said, the engine now houses new pistons, new connecting rods and redesigned combustion chamber, all contributing to the higher peak power.

In addition, the 2023 Triumph Street Triple range also features a new gearbox with a revised gear ratio.

Spec-wise, the 2023 Street Triple comes with lots of goodies, with the R variant boasting Brembo M4 brake callipers and a fully-adjustable suspension courtesy of Showa.

Meanwhile, the up-spec RS gets a Showa 41mm USD big piston forks and Ohlins piggyback rear shock. On the other hand, the Moto2 Edition gets Ohlins 43mm fully adjustable forks and rear shocks.

All three models also received a new electronic package, including refined cornering ABS, traction control and 4+1 riding modes; Road, Rain, Sport, Rider and Track (only available on the RS/Moto2 Edition).

Pricing and availability

According to Triumph, the Street Triple range starts from GBP9,59 for the R, GBP11,295 for the RS and GBP13,795 for the Moto2 Edition.

SPOTTED: Upcoming Royal Enfield Scrambler 650 Caught Testing In India

Royal Enfield’s 650 Twin, the Interceptor and Continental GT is proven to be one of the most popular retro-style motorcycle available in the market.

Royal Enfield to introduced a new scrambler-type motorcycle.
Powered by the firm’s trusted parallel-twin motor.

The success is down to the bike’s trusted 649cc parallel-twin engine as well as excellent value for money compared to the rest of its competitors.

Just last month, the India-based company were caught testing a new scrambler-style motorcycle in the UK, powered by its parallel-twin motor.

However, in a latest development, the upcoming motorcycle was caught testing in India for the very first time.

As such, latest spy photos revealed more noteworthy details including a minimalist side panels similar to the Interceptor 650, small windshield above the front headlamp and an upside down fork.

Perhaps the most striking difference is the 2-into-1 exhaust system that is the first for the firm’s 650 range.

Nonetheless, the upcoming scrambler features the same tubular steel frame with bolted trussing similar to the 650 Twin.

Looking at how well dress the test mule is, we assume it will roll into production soon. Maybe a 2023 release is on the card?

(Source: AutoCar India)

Hero MotoCorp To Enter The Philippine Market

Indian motorcycle giant Hero MotoCorp is ready to set foot in the Philippine market by 2024 as part of the company’s international expansion plans.

Hero is ready to expand its brand in the Philippines.
The India-based company has sold more than 100 million motorcycles since its debut.

To achieve this, Hero has partnered experienced automotive firm in the Philippines, Terrafirma Motors Corporation (TMC), a subsidiary of the Columbian Group of Companies.

TMC will take charge of Hero’s motorcycle distribution in the country.

“In keeping with our R4 (Recalibrate, Revitalise, Revolutionise and Revive) strategy, we are always keenly exploring new opportunities in global markets.

“Our partnership with Terrafirma Motors Corporation (TMC) to enter the Southeast Asian region is an integral part of this expansion strategy.

“The trust and technology prowess of Hero MotoCorp combined with TMC’s automotive expertise and network in the Philippines will definitely create an impact and strengthen our footprint in this key market,” Hero MotoCorp Head of Global Business, Sanjay Bhan told ZigWheels.

Hero MotoCorp is regarded as the world’s largest two-wheel manufacturer in terms of sales, with over 100 million motorcycles sold since its debut.

Hero’s motorcycles are available in 43 countries worldwide, including Asia, Africa, and South and Central America.

Meet The 2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 And Tenere 700 Rally Edition

Yamaha has updated its popular middleweight adventure motorcycle, the Tenere 700and Tenere 700 Rally Edition for 2023.

The 2023 Tenere 700 and Tenere 700 Rally Edition features a new dash and electronic package.
The Tenere 700 is powered by Yamaha’s high-torque CP2 engine.

The Tenere 700 has continued to be a hit among adventure riders since its introduction in 2019, with the bike’s success contributed by its off-road capability as well as excellent value for money compared to the rest of its competitors.

What’s new?

Riders will appreciate the new instrumentation that comes in the form of a 5-inch TFT colour display replacing the outdated LCD digital dash.

The new dash also features smartphone connectivity that can be connected to a smartphone which feeds incoming calls, emails and text messages.

The new display also allows riders to link it to the Yamaha My Ride app.

Other notable updates include pre-wiring for a quickshifiter, USB port, redesigned brake lever and LED turn signal.

Electronically, the 2023 Tenere 700 gets new and improved three switchable ABS modes; ON, OFF and REAR OFF.

Other features available on the 2023 Tenere 700 and 700 Rally Edition include:

lightweight double-cradle tubular steel frame
adjustable 43mm upside-down forks
remotely adjustable rear suspension
21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel
16L fuel tank
handguards

Powering the 2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 and Tenere 700 Rally Edition is the high torque 690cc 4-stroke, CP2 Euro5-compliant engine that puts out 72.3hp @ 8,750rpm and 67Nm @ 6,500rpm. Power is delivered to the rear wheel via a 6-speed manual transmission with a final chain drive.

Meanwhile, the Rally Edition is fitted with a dedicated rally seat, radiator protector and Akrapovic slip-on muffler as standard.

GALLERY: 2023 Yamaha Tenere 700 and Tenere 700 Rally Edition

EMOS Introduces Kawasaki Roadside Assist – 24-Hours Towing And Customer Care

Kawasaki owners can now breathe easily in case of a breakdown as Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS) has officially introduced its roadside assistance services.

New Kawasaki owners can enjoy up to four free towing services in a year.
Customers can reach out to Kawasaki Roadside Assistance via toll-free line.

EMOS, in its press statement, said that the service covers all-new Kawasaki and Modenas rebranded models manufactured in 2022 and registered from August 1, 2022.

According to MODENAS CEO Roslan Roskan, the service is part of the company’s initiatives to provide the best services for its customers.

“We are always looking at providing convenience for our customers. Accidents happen and motorists do not want to walk on the side of the highway pushing their heavy motorcycles to an auto mechanic shop.

“Therefore, we have decided to focus more of our resources on helping our customers get fast, efficient and safe towing for their motorcycles rather than being forced to leave them stranded by the roadside,” he said.

The 24 hours roadside assistance includes a free 100KM round-trip towing throughout West Malaysia and to all major towns in East Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak.

However, for towing that exceeds 100km, an additional RM2.00 per kilometre will be imposed. In addition, towing services shall cover both major and minor engine/motor breakdowns and accidents.

Each member is entitled to four free towing services a year, but the service is valid for only one year from the registration date.

Owners can reach out to Kawasaki Roadside Assistance at any time via a toll-free number at 1-800-880-008.

New SHARK Spartan RS Helmet Gets Carbon Fiber Treatment

If you’re in the market for a new all-rounder motorcycle helmet, perhaps look no further than SHARK’s latest Spartan RS helmet, introduced in September last year.

SHARK’s latest Spartan RS meets the new ECE22.05 homologation standard.
Every SHARK helmet range comes with a 5-year manufacturer warranty.

However, as we are two months away from 2023, SHARK has updated its Spartan RS with a new carbon fibre shell.

Carbon fibre shell is popular among riders as it is strong as its fibreglass counterpart and much lighter.

More importantly, despite the lighter shell, the SHARK Spartan RS Carbon still meets the ECE22.06 homologation standard. That said, the new carbon fibre shell only weighs 1,480grams in size medium.

Also, the Spartan RS is designed to have minimal buffering at high speeds, which SHARK capitalize on its motorsport efforts in MotoGP.

The helmet also features seven air vents, three at the front and four at the back.

Interestingly, the visor is also thicker and straight from the SHARK Race-R Pro GP helmet.

The visor is also rated optical Class 1, which means the rider is provided with an undistorted view. Pinlock 120 Max Vision is also included in the box as standard.

Other notable features include:

anti-microbial and anti-odour Alveotech fabric liner
removable/washable cheek pads
secured with a double D-ring retention system

As usual, every SHARK helmet comes with a 5-year warranty. In Europe, the new Spartan RS Carbon is priced at EUR436.99.

Royal Enfield Begin Testing EV Prototypes – To Roll Out In 2025

As the world is shifting towards a sustainable ecosystem, motorcycle manufacturers are also moving towards the same direction.

Royal Enfield begins testing electric motorcycle prototypes in several facilities around the globe.
Royal Enfield’s production-ready EV is set to roll out in 2025.

The latest is Royal Enfield, which has started testing its EV prototypes at various locations worldwide.

According to reports, after investing in a dedicated infrastructure specialising in electric vehicles, Royal Enfield has also hired relevant individuals to boost its EV development in India and the UK.

However, while other manufacturers – such as Kawasaki and Triumph – is already in the advanced stages of introducing their production-ready electric motorcycles, Royal Enfield will only launch its EV in 2025.

This is because the India-based company wants to ensure that its EV project can set a similar quality benchmark as its 350cc to 650cc range.

That said, Royal Enfield is working to understand what buyers want in an electric motorcycle which, in turn, allows the firm to develop an EV that meets the customer’s needs similar to its petrol-powered motorcycle.

Royal Enfield will also focus on expanding its ICE-based motorcycles with the soon-to-be-launch Himalayan 450 and Shogun 650.

Watch Kenan Sofuoglu Teaches His 3-Year-Old Son To Ride A Gold Wing

Kenan Sofuoglu took the term ‘start them young’ to a whole different level as the ex-MotoGP and WorldSBK rider recently let his three-year-old son, Zayn Sofuoglu, take the Honda Gold Wing for a spin!

The Honda Gold Wing is a 1800cc motorcycle that weighs more than 300kg.
The Gold Wing featured in the video is equipped with Honda’s DCT transmission.

Before we show you the video, it’s probably wise to remind you not to let your kids take on a bike as massive and heavy as the Gold Wing, especially if he’s been around for only 1,095 days.

In the video posted on Sofuoglu’s son’s Instagram account, we can see his kid approaching the Gold Wing, which is evidently taller and way bigger than him.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zayn Sofuoğlu???? (@zaynsofuoglu)

Zayn continues to fire up the bike as if he is not bothered by the bike’s size before taking it for a spin under the watchful eyes of his dad.

A quick scan through Zayn’s social media accounts shows that he’s ridden several motorcycles, including the Yamaha TMAX, Italjet’s Dragster and a Honda Ruckus.

So for someone who was born in April 2019, it’s a surprise that a kid at that age can ride a full-size motorcycle.

However, perhaps the video somehow proves how easy it is to ride a Gold Wing, even for a kid who can’t even reach the footpegs to ride it.

But then again, we wouldn’t advise you to try this with your kids.