Ducati to re-release the Pantah?

Rumours this morning from designer Oberdan Bezzi say that Ducati is planning a more basic range of motorcycles to complement the Monster, SportClassicand Superbike model lines.

This could include a remake of the early ’80s Pantah featuring a more modern design with belt-driven cams and desmodromic valve operation.

Though we haven’t yet had confirmation from the Italian manufacturer, a day-to-day bike certainly would put more riders in a Ducati saddle, but the question is with such retro-styling, would you
ride one?

BMW GS celebrates 500,000 mark

Whether in off-road racing or as the ultimate any-road tourer: with its conceptual variety, the BMW GS models have become firmly established on the market over a period of three decades, with the 500,000th BMW GS coming off the production line in Berlin on May 12th, 2009 – an R 1200 GS.

The BMW GS motorcycles have developed continuously since 1980, shaping the image of BMW Motorrad more than any other series.

Originally the traditional 2-cylinder flat twin “boxer” engine was reserved solely for the BMW GS models, but in 2000 a single cylinder GS was introduced, the F 650 GS – a smaller, lighter bike which continues to be produced as the G 650 GS. In 2008, the successful BMW GS range was also supplemented with the F 650 GS and the F 800 G with 2-cylinder in-line engine.

BMW Motorrad looks back over a long tradition of off-road racing. In 1980, Rolf Witthöft won the European Off-Road Championship on an 800 cc BMW, while the R 80 G/S premiered in the same year with what now seems a rather modest 50 bhp. With its innovative chassis technology and low weight of just 186 kg, it not only displayed brilliant off-road qualities but was also reliable for everyday riding and an ideal travel companion. One eye-catching novelty was the single-sided swing arm, called BMW Monolever, for rear wheel control. With the highest capacity engine for an off road motorcycle at the time, the bike founded an entirely new market segment: that of the large-capacity adventure bikes.

In 1981 the French desert specialist Hubert Auriol won the motorcycle rating of the Paris-Dakar Rally, repeating his success in 1983. The flat twin models continued to be based on serial production models and were victorious again in 1984 and 1985 when former motocross champion Gaston Ranier from Belgium left the competition behind him.
The R 80 G/S and the subsequent R 100 GS became outstanding hits in the BMW range, enjoying great popularity among long-distance motorcyclists. They proved themselves to be extremely robust, reliable and easy to handle. This is why the GS turns up in just about every corner of the earth, no matter how remote.

In the course of the model revision in 1987, the R 80 GS and R 100 GS were presented with the revolutionary double-jointed swing arm (BMW Paralever) and patented cross-spoke tubeless wheels. At the IFMA Cologne in 1988, BMW Motorrad then presented the R 100 Paris – Dakar with rally front section, engine guard and 35-litre fuel tank. This model was based on a racing bike on which Eddy Hau from Munich had won the marathon class for private riders at the Dakar rally.

To mark the tenth anniversary of the popular BMW Adventure bike the R 80 GS and R 100 GS were given a new look in 1990, geared towards the style of the Paris-Dakar version.

Meanwhile, BMW motorcycles continued to do well in off-road racing. For example, Jutta Kleinschmidt entered the Cape Town rally as a private competitor with her close-to-production BMW R 100 GS in 1992 and crossed the finishing line as winner of the women’s category.

In 1993 BMW presented a new series with a 4-valve flat twin engine. After this the model range was expanded in rapid succession. In September the R 1100 GS with a large 25-litre fuel tank and comfortable dual section seat caused a stir at the IAA in Frankfurt. In addition to the new 4-valve flat twin engines, BMW also presented the new Telelever front suspension system.

In addition to the 80 bhp R 1100 GS, the F 850 GS (70 bhp) came out in 1998. In subsequent years, the GS engines continuously increased in capacity and thus in output and torque, too. Today’s top model, the BMW R 1200 GS, now has an output of 105 bhp and a maximum torque of 115 Nm.

The “big” GS with the classic flat twin engine is the most popular bike in BMW Motorrad’s model range today. Last year alone, 35,305 new BMW R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure motorcycles were sold to customers all over the world.

In Australia and New Zealand, the GS model range accounts for approximately 50 per cent of the entire volume, with a loyal following of passionate enduro riders.

Australia’s love affair with the GS gave rise to the dedicated BMW GS Safari programme (established in 2005), and also instigated the BMW Motorrad GS Adventure off-road training programme, where BMW GS owners have the opportunity to hone their adventure riding skills in order to get the most out of their motorcycle.

BikeAdvice is currently testing the latest GS, so stayed tuned for a full review soon.

2009 BMW G650 GS Review & Road Test

Do it all – and do it well

Model Tested:

• 2009 BMW G650 GS; 652cc single-cylinder; five-speed; enduro – $TBC

LAMS approved; standard ABS; low seat height
Seat position; tight key location; limited storage

BikeAdvice Rating:

- by Matt Brogan

The GS range has been quite the sales success for BMW, and since its launch three decades ago, has sold more than 500,000 units. So just what is it about the GS that keeps riders coming back again and again?

To me the answer is relatively simple, and that answer is utility.

Dual-purpose bikes such as the GS represent exceptional value given their capabilities in all manner of riding environments and while some examples of such bikes may be a little “rough and ready”, the GS is actually an enjoyable ride.

It’s light, easy to steer, has enough guts to keep it ahead of the traffic and, best of all for the vertically challenged, like me, is available with a low seat height option (as fitted to our test bike) to make it all the more appealing to newcomers – a bonus considering the G650 GS is also LAMS approved.

It looks the goods too with a real sense of purpose and adventure in its design. This sentiment carries through to the bikes application as well with decent suspension travel (adjustable on the rear) and switchable Brembo ABS making off-road riding manageable for amateurs and professionals alike.

The only possible qualm I might have at this point is to say that the scalloped seat is set a little too far forward, which means you do have to lean back a little on some corners to get your weight over the rear wheel.

With a fuel injected 652cc single-cylinder engine providing 60Nm of torque at 4800rpm the G650 GS is happy to provide the majority of its mumbo before mid-tacho, which makes for steady acceleration through the five-speed box.

There is however only 37kW availed from 6500rpm so while it isn’t what I’d call fast, it is certainly very capable even managing highway cruising with little fuss.

The under-seat fuel tank boasts an impressive 17.3 litres capacity, and with a consumption figure of 3.8 litres per 100km (as tested), a decent cruising range is easily achieved. Perhaps the only issue with the tank location is that under-seat storage is reduced to a bare minimum.

There’s no gauge on the dash either, but I didn’t find this an issue with a warning light letting you know when it’s time to fill up.

Another up-side to the G650 GS is the heated handle grips which make cold Melbourne mornings bearable, especially with such an exposed riding position. This upright riding position does, however, have an advantage in providing absolutely flawless visibility in tight traffic.

Dash layout is minimalist yet effective with “at-a-glance” simplicity meaning your eyes are allowed to stay focused on the job at hand. I also found the single headlamp to be more than adequate for night riding. The only real bother in this area is that the key position is a little tight, especially with gloves on.

In all though I’ve got to say I really enjoyed my week with the GS. It’s capable versatility, ease of use and no-nonsense stance make it one of the best all rounders for any one new to motorcycling or for those who just want a bike that will do all – and do it well. Four-out-of-five.

Ratings:

BikeAdvice Overall Rating:
How does it Ride:
How does it Look:
How does it Go:

Specifications:

• Brakes (F): Single 300mm Disc (ABS)
• Brakes (R): Single 240mm Disc
• Clutch: Multi-Disc (Wet)
• CO2 Emissions: TBC
  
• Engine: 652cc single-cylinder (4 Valve)
  
• Final Drive: ‘O’ Ring Chain
  
• Fuel Consumption: 3.8 litres per 100km (As Tested)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.3 litres
• Fuel Type: 91 – 98 RON Unleaded
• Induction: Electronic
• Performance (0-100): Not Tested
• Performance (Top Speed): 170km/h (Claimed)
• Power: 37kW @ 6500rpm
• Suspension (F): 41mm Telescopic Fork
• Suspension (R): Single Spring (Hydraulic)
• Torque: 60Nm @ 4800rpm
• Transmission: Five-Speed
• Warranty: TBC
• Weight: 175kg (Dry)
• Wheel (F): Wire Spoke 19 x 2.5-inch
• Wheel (R): Wire Spoke 17 x 3.0-inch

Yamaha celebrates MotoGP 1-2 at Catalunya

In what can only be described as edge-of-your-seat stuff, Yamaha riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo have completed an exciting 1-2 finish at the sixth round of the 2009 MotoGP series in Catalunya, Spain.

Sharing the podium with a noticeably exhausted Stoner the pair fought neck-and-neck throughout the race with Rossi securing his win on the very last corner of the 25 lap race.

The win, Rossi’s 99th GP victory, was won by less than one-tenth of a second from team-mate Lorenzo.

“In Italian you would just say about that race, ‘Mama Mia!’. This battle with Lorenzo was very, very close,” remarked an excited Rossi. “Our two bikes are set-up very well and we had the same pace so I knew we would get to the end of the race like that so it was fantastic. It was a great race and we know that Lorenzo is very strong, so to try and beat him in the future we have to be at 100 per cent. I’m so happy about today and my 99th GP win. It was so important to take this victory here in Barcelona, more than just the 25 points, because for me, for my team and for the crowd it is just fantastic, so I think the show was unbelievable.”

With the Yamaha colleagues tied in first position in a three-way fight with Australian Casey Stoner, thoughts were already turning to the next installment of this intriguing 2009 title contest at the Dutch TT.

Round seven from Assen begins in just ten days.

BMW unveils production ready S 1000 RR at Monza

The long awaited production version of BMW’s S 1000 RR superbike has finally been unveiled at Monza.

BMW’s litre-bike features a liquid cooled in-line four cylinder that develops an impressive 143.7kW @ 13,000rpm (red-line is 14,200) and a very tidy 112Nm of torque at 9,750 revs.

The S 1000 RR engine houses titanium valves and very small, ultra light-weight cam followers. BMW quotes a dry weight of 183kg, and a wet weight of 204kg – which increases to 206.5kg with optionoal race-spec ABS (front supplied by Brembo).

Multi-mode traction control and HP Gearshift Assist (for clutchless up-shifting) are also available as cost options.

With an aluminium tank, frame, swingarm and 10-spoke cast wheels the light weight machine features an alloy sub-frame which is made from four separate castings. The engine also serves as a load-bearing element.

Available in Mineral Silver, Grey or Acid Green (as shown) the S 1000 RR will also be available in white, blue and red factory livery at no additional cost.

Full pricing will be announced shortly before the Australian sales debut in early 2010.

Suzuki releases Boulevard C109RT

Suzuki has expanded its popular Boulevard cruiser range in releasing its new C109RT model in to Australia.

The sixth model in Suzuki’s Boulevard line-up, the Boulevard C109RT is set to stand out from the crowd with white wall tyres, a distinctive two-tone red/black livery and a studded seat to complement the classic, sweeping lines and chrome-plated finishes.

A 19-litre fuel tank offers an extended touring range, while passenger footboards enhance an already comfortable riding experience.

The new Boulevard C109RT is a variant of the popular Boulevard C109R cruiser, introduced as a new model to Suzuki’s Boulevard line-up in 2008.

An all-new concept, the Boulevard C109R combines Suzuki’s revered, biggest-displacement production engine and advanced technology with timeless, classic cruiser styling in a unique package.

Packed with advanced technology, the Boulevard C109R is powered by a 1783cc, DOHC, 54 degree V-Twin engine, delivering impressive torque throughout a huge powerband.

The engine features massive 112mm forged aluminium pistons and a unique two-stage cam drive system, while Suzuki’s Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) fuel injection system ensures smooth power delivery.

Complementing the potent engine, the classic power cruiser incorporates a range of extra features to put the Boulevard C109R ahead of the pack.

A high-tensile, double-cradle steel frame and suspension system with telescopic front forks and a rear swingarm with a preload-adjustable shock absorber deliver a comfortable ride and agile handling.

Braking performance is enhanced by a new combined system, which applies the rear brake and partial front brake when the rear brake lever is applied.

More traditional than the Suzuki’s Boulevard ‘M’ line of muscle cruisers, the Boulevard C109R’s upright seating position and pullback handlebars offer impressive rider comfort on long trips.

Now available in Australia, the Boulevard C109RT is backed by Suzuki’s two-year, unlimited kilometre warranty with pricing to be announced shortly.

South Australia steps up “hoon” laws

South Australia’s hoon laws are set to be upgraded with the announcement today that new dangerous driving laws will be in place by the end of the year.

The changes to the state’s already strict laws were announced today by Police Minister Michael Wright and Road Safety Minister Michael O’Brien and are aimed squarely at illegal street racing and young, male drivers.

“These drivers are a menace,” Mr O’Brien said. “They threaten the lives of every other road user when they put their foot to the floor. They endanger their own lives as well as their passengers.”

A committee will be formed by the pair that will include Police chief superintendent Paul Schramm, and representatives of the Attorney-General, the Department of Transport, Energy and Infrastructure and Road Safety.

This group will look at moving illegal street racing to a dangerous driving offence (an offence which will attract a higher penalty), the sale and/or crushing of impounded bikes and cars, impounding and clamping of bikes and cars until court proceedings are finalised, and the introduction of even higher penalties for drivers caught speeding by more than 45km/h.

The group is expected to issue a preliminary report within the next eight weeks and a final report four weeks later. Legislation will then be passed by the year’s end.