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    RiderBOT
    Australia sweeps Rally-Raid, MXoN and SoN at the FIM Awards, with O’Halloran also honoured
    Daniel Sanders capped a stunning 2025 by collecting his FIM World Rally-Raid Champion medal in Lausanne, Switzerland, after a season that began with a statement win at the Dakar Rally and never really let up.
    The Victorian, 31, dominated one of motorcycling’s toughest disciplines aboard his KTM, taking four victories from five starts. He set the tone at the two-week Dakar in January, doubled up at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, and made it three on the bounce at the South African Safari Rally. By the time the series hit the BP Ultimate Rally-Raid Portugal, his fourth straight triumph had effectively shut the door on any title rivals. The only blip came at the finale in Morocco, where Tosha Schareina (Honda) denied him a clean sweep, though the championship was already in the bag. It’s another major milestone for a rider who previously helped Australia lift the World Trophy at the 2018 6DAYS FIM Enduro of Nations; now he adds an individual FIM gold medal to the cabinet.

    Australia’s presence was felt across the ceremony. In road racing, Jason O’Halloran shared the FIM Endurance World Championship honours with YART Yamaha teammates Karel Hanika and Marvin Fritz, with team boss Manfred Kainz also recognised as YART secured the FIM Endurance Team World Championship title.

    Peter Doyle, Motorcycling Australia CEO, stepped onto the stage to receive the Team award for Australia’s FIM Motocross of Nations triumph, acknowledging the back-to-back MXoN success driven by Jett Lawrence, Hunter Lawrence and Kyle Webster. And the green-and-gold kept rolling in the shale with Brady Kurtz and Jack Holder steering Australia back to the FIM Speedway of Nations crown in Torun, Poland, after a decisive 7-2 Grand Final over the hosts.

    The 2025 FIM Awards played out at the SwissTech Convention Center before an audience of around one thousand, recognising 64 world titles spanning Circuit Racing, Motocross, Trial, Enduro, Cross Country Rallies and Track Racing. The show went out live globally, including via FOX Australia, with Lauriane Gilliéron and Gavin Emmett as Masters of Ceremony.

    Internationally, a who’s who of the sport took centre stage. The Ultimate Champions roster included Marc Márquez as MotoGP Grand Prix World Champion, Toprak Razgatlıoğlu in WorldSBK, Romain Febvre in MXGP, Josep Garcia in EnduroGP, Toni Bou in TrialGP and Bartosz Zmarzlik in Speedway GP—alongside Sanders as RallyGP World Champion. Márquez also received a surprise FIM Sporting Trophy to close the night. Earlier, Jonathan Rea helped present the circuit racing medals, while Motocross and Trial luminaries Harry Everts and Sammy Miller joined proceedings for their disciplines.

    Reflecting on the night, FIM President Jorge Viegas said: “To be able to celebrate this occasion in the FIM’s home country for the very first time and to have every 2025 FIM World Champions in attendance has cemented this edition of the FIM Awards to be one of the best we have enjoyed in the fifteen year history of this unique event.”

    Sanders will return to defend his Dakar Rally crown on the 3rd of January, while Jett and Hunter Lawrence will be starting the 2026 AMA Supercross season in top form, beginning January 10 at Anaheim. Jason O’Halloran will be attempting to win the British Superbike championship with Honda after lifting the WEC World Championship team trophy this year.
    The post Sanders Caps Off Record Year with FIM Award appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Chinese approval reveals Honda’s upcoming four-cylinder
    Honda previewed its upcoming CBR500R Four and CB400 Super Four models at the CIMA show in China in September but despite putting the bikes on display it revealed few technical details and hasn’t released studio images of the bikes. Now that’s changed with the publication of type-approval paperwork in China that gives away key facts and figures about the fully-faired version.
    We already knew that Honda, which is building the two bikes at its Chinese Wuyang-Honda plant, has developed a new 500cc four-cylinder engine, confirmed in the approval to measure precisely 502cc. It’s paired to a transmission using a next-generation version of the company’s E-Clutch system, similar to the system offered on the CBR650R but more compact, with the electromechanical actuators moved to the lefthand side of the engine.
    Showa suspension, Nissin four-pot brakes and a steel frame are also expected, while the new approval document confirms key elements including a 210km/h top speed, a lithe kerb weight of 189kg and a 1412mm wheelbase.
    The engine uses a 60mm bore, which means we can calculate the stroke to be 44.4mm to reach the 502cc capacity, and the approval shows that the max power is 52.8kW, putting it behind the 55kW of Kawasaki’s ZX-4RR and the 58kW of CFMoto’s 500SR Voom, both sure to be key rivals.
    Honda’s precise plans for the bike on markets outside China are unclear at the moment, other than strong rumours that a 400cc version will also be launched to suit local requirements of the Japanese market, backed by evidence in the form of trademark applications. The company has also filed trademark applications for the names CBR500R Four and CB500 Super Four names around the globe, showing that while the bikes are being launched in China first, they will be sold more widely in the future.
    The post Honda CBR500R Four Details Emerge appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT

    KTM RC450 Leaks In Full

    By RiderBOT, in Articles,

    Upcoming sports twin is a CFMoto 450SR-S under the skin
    The next KTM sports bike has been unwittingly revealed in Chinese type-approval documents filed by the joint-venture manufacturing operation run by the Austrian brand and its partners CFMoto.
    Pictured resplendent in production-spec orange paintwork and wearing an oversized ‘RC’ logo along with the ‘450’ to denote its engine capacity, the bike has sped from development to being production-ready in record-fast time for one very good reason: under the skin it’s largely the same as the existing CFMoto 450SR-S.
    The 449cc parallel twin is the same 270-degree crank unit that debuted in the CFMoto 450SR, which also donates its trellis-style frame, while the single-sided swingarm comes from the higher-spec SR-S version. The specs on the accompanying approval document confirm the KTM is fractionally lighter than the CFMoto, coming in at 168kg against 171kg for the SR-S, while its power is pegged a fraction higher at 41.3kW where the CFMoto tops out at 38kW.
    There are distinct differences between the KTM and the CFMoto, though. The KTM, for example, uses WP suspension instead of the KYB parts of the 450SR-S, and the clip-ons are mounted below the top yoke for a racier riding position while a WP steering damper helps tame the front end. A quickshifter’s load sensor, as also used on the CFMoto, is visible in the gear linkage, but the pegs and foot controls are revised, appearing to be mounted higher on the KTM.
    The angular bodywork matches KTM’s usual ethos, and the wheels are also different to the split-spoked design used on the CFMoto. Front winglets and a ridiculously high pillion perch confirm the bike’s extreme approach, while the CFMoto connection is revealed in the mirrors and turn signals, which are borrowed from the 450SR-S.
    The approval document reveals that the KTM’s wheelbase, at 1360mm, is 10mm shorter than the 450SR, suggesting the racier riding position is accompanied by a more nose-down geometry, and quotes a top speed of 195km/h. It also reveals the bike is fitted with Bosch 10.3MB ABS and uses the same tyre sizes as the 450SR-S, 110/70R17 at the front and 150/60R17 at the rear.
     
    The post KTM RC450 Leaks In Full appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Joe Rascal sign Archie McDonald to ride Harley Davidson in MotoGP Baggers series
    At 19, Albury’s Archie McDonald is one of Australia’s sharpest rising prospects. He was on two wheels by the age of three, first ripping around the family backyard, then honing his craft on flat track before switching to road racing in 2019. This year he straddled the ASBK Supersport 600 and the FIM European STK600 class with Stop & Seal Racing and PS Racing, and he’s already made noise at home and abroad – most notably with a breakthrough win at Portimão on his birthday weekend in his first-ever international start last year.
    McDonald’s 2024 season gave him a first real taste of juggling two continents: the logistics, the privateer grind, and the speed that kept people watching. In 2025 he levelled up again—on track and off. A mid-year European team collapse threatened to derail his momentum, but a late-season lifeline delivered redemption. Back home, with steadfast support from Stop & Seal, he missed one ASBK Supersport round due to Europe yet still fell just short of the title, edged by team-mate Jack Mahaffy – despite missing Round 3.
    The 2026 Baggers World Cup represents a major step onto the world stage, placing McDonald in a paddock loaded with seasoned champions, with an experienced team manager and teammate who will be announced soon.
    Next year marks the first truly global season for the World Series Baggers: new tracks, revised technical regs, and a host of unknowns—just the sort of environment that suits a rider keen to shake off others’ expectations. For McDonald its a chance to show the speed and racecraft on a stage with huge international exposure. The next chapter promises to be loud and fast—and unlike anything he’s done before. Two races per round will bring Baggers to some of Europe’s most iconic circuits, and is sure to provide some incredible racing with many big names competing alongside young up and coming talents.
    2026 Harley-Davidson Bagger World Cup calendar
    Americas GP – Circuit of the Americas (USA): March 27–29 Italian GP – Autodromo Internazionale del Mugello (Italy): May 29–31 Dutch GP – TT Circuit Assen (Netherlands): June 26–28 British GP – Silverstone Circuit (UK): August 7–9 Aragon GP – MotorLand Aragón (Spain): August 28–30 Austrian GP – Red Bull Ring (Austria): September 18–20
    The post Archie McDonald To Ride in 2026 Baggers World Cup appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Triumph Motorcycles will launch its new Tiger Sport 800 Tour in Australian dealerships from February 2026, priced from $23,290 rideaway.
    The British manufacturer’s latest adventure sport tourer builds on the Tiger Sport 800 platform with enhanced touring specification fitted as standard, including integrated colour-matched luggage, centre-stand, heated grips, hand guards and a dual comfort seat.

    The Tiger Sport 800 Tour arrives ready for extended adventures with an aluminium luggage rack supporting colour-coded panniers offering 57 litres of capacity and a 49-litre twin-helmet top box with dual backrest pads. A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is also fitted as standard.
    Power comes from Triumph’s 800cc triple-cylinder engine producing 85kW at 10,750rpm and 84Nm of torque at 8500 rpm, with 90 per cent of torque available throughout the mid-range. The responsive powerplant is paired with a six-speed gearbox featuring an up/down quickshifter.

    Suspension duties are handled by 41mm Showa upside-down forks with rebound and compression damping adjustment, while a Showa monoshock provides 150mm of rear wheel travel with rebound adjustment and remote hydraulic preload adjustment for when carrying luggage or a pillion. The Tour tips the scales at 232kg wet weight with luggage fitted.
    Braking comes from Triumph-branded radial-mounted four-piston calipers gripping twin 310mm front discs, supported by Optimised Cornering ABS and Optimised Cornering Traction Control. Michelin Road 5 sport-touring tyres are fitted to lightweight cast aluminium wheels.

    The Tiger Sport 800 Tour offers three riding modes through its ride-by-wire throttle system. Sport sharpens throttle response, Road provides balanced performance for everyday riding, and Rain delivers extra security in wet conditions with adjusted traction control intervention.
    Standard equipment includes My Triumph Connectivity System with turn-by-turn navigation, phone integration and music control via Bluetooth. A multi-functional display combines LCD and colour TFT screens, while all-LED lighting handles visibility front and rear.

    The 835mm seat height and slim stand-over width aid low-speed manoeuvrability, while the adjustable windscreen and integrated deflectors provide wind protection at speed. An 18.6-litre fuel tank provides touring range, and the 106-litre luggage capacity accommodates two XL full-face helmets.
    Two colour schemes are available. Matt Cobalt pairs deep blue tones with Matt Sapphire Black and matt gold accents, while Carnival Red offers a glossy finish with Sapphire Black details and gold highlights. Both schemes extend to the matching panniers and top box.
    2026 Triumph Tiger Sport 800 Tour. 1 of 8 Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post Tiger Sport 800 Tour: Triumph’s loaded adventure tourer arrives February appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Motorcyclist‑friendly barriers and safer intersections lead $10.6 million first‑stage works statewide
    It has been announced that Victoria’s Motorcycle Safety Infrastructure Program will deliver eight new projects under the Federal Government’s Road Safety Program, with $10.6 million allocated in the first stage across Gippsland, Hume, Loddon Mallee and Greater Melbourne. Works include installing motorcyclist-friendly barrier treatments, improving signage and sealing intersections at the following locations:
    Licola Road near Heyfield, Glenmaggie and Licola Willowgrove Road near Trafalgar, Willow Grove and Hill End Mirboo North Trafalgar Road near Trafalgar Broadford-Flowerdale Road near Strath Creek Whittlesea-Yea Road near Yea Granya Road near Bullioh and Granya Mansfield Whitefield Road near Mansfield and Whitfield Old Sale Road, Shady Creek The package is a joint investment of $5 million from the Road Safety Program and $5.6 million from the Victorian Government’s Motorcycle Safety Levy. According to the Victorian Government, 54 motorcyclists have lost their lives on Victorian roads so far this year.

    TAC data released for Motorcyclist Awareness Month reports 47 rider fatalities on Victorian roads at this point in the year, compared with 49 at the same time in 2024 and above the five-year average of 36. Motorcycles represent around three per cent of registered vehicles in Victoria, accounting for about 17 per cent of road deaths and around 23 per cent of very serious injuries, despite making up only 3% of total road users. Over the past five years, around 60 per cent of motorcycle rider fatalities have involved another vehicle, with approximately half of these occurring at intersections. The TAC has re-launched its Only Protected for a Moment campaign and will promote protective gear and rider safety messaging during community events and at the Australian MotoGP at Phillip Island.
    Kristy McBain, Minister for Regional Development and Local Government
    “The Australian Government will continue to work with the Victorian Government to improve motorcyclist safety. We want to keeping Australians safe on our roads. These eight new projects in Victoria will improve safety, benefit our communities and reduce road trauma.”
    Melissa Horne, Victorian Minister for Roads and Safety
    “Motorcyclists are among our most vulnerable road users and are sadly overrepresented in road trauma, which is why we are continuing to prioritise making our roads safer through the Motorcycle Safety Levy.”
    Tony Weber, Chief Executive, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries
    “Motorcycle riders deserve a network that supports their mobility and recognises the benefit of safe roads. This announcement is a practical investment in targeted upgrades that has the potential to make a measurable difference. Too many riders are suffering injury or worse on Victorian roads. Evidence shows that well-designed infrastructure, including motorcyclist-friendly barriers and safer intersections, can significantly reduce harm. We welcome this strong cooperation between governments to address the issue. Safer roads will give more people the confidence to consider motorcycling as a lower-cost, low-emissions transport alternative.”
    The post Eight Victorian Infrastructure Projects Announced For Rider Safety appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    New touring version of Tiger Sport 800 due in Australian dealers from February 2026 with a $23,290 rideaway sticker
    Based on the existing Tiger Sport 800, the Tour arrives with the long-haul bits already bolted on: centre stand, heated grips, hand guards and a dual Comfort Seat. Luggage is part of the deal, too — colour-matched panniers (57L combined) and a 49L twin-helmet top box on an aluminium rack, complete with backrest pads.

    Power comes from Triumph’s 800cc triple, claimed at 115 PS (about 84.6kW) at 10,750rpm and 84Nm at 8500rpm, with the company saying most of the torque is on tap through the midrange. A six-speed box with Triumph Shift Assist is standard.

    Chassis hardware mirrors the base bike’s sport-touring brief, with Showa 41mm adjustable upside-down forks and a Showa rear shock featuring rebound adjust and a remote hydraulic preload adjuster for quick changes when loaded. Triumph-branded radial four-piston calipers bite twin 310mm front discs, and Michelin Road 5 rubber are wrapped around cast wheels. Wet weight is quoted at 232kg with the luggage fitted.

    Weather and distance gear includes an adjustable windscreen with integrated deflectors, the heated grips and hand guards mentioned earlier, and the Comfort Seat with ‘3D net’ tech and air channels. Seat height is a manageable 835mm and fuel capacity remains at 18.6 litres, maintaining the standard Tiger Sport’s narrow waist.


    Electronics cover three riding modes (Sport, Road and Rain), ride-by-wire throttle, switchable traction control, Optimised Cornering ABS and cornering traction control, plus the new TPMS. Lighting is all-LED and the dash pairs an LCD with a colour TFT. The My Triumph Connectivity System brings turn-by-turn nav, phone integration and music control via Bluetooth. A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is also standard.

    Two colourways will be offered: Matt Cobalt with Matt Sapphire Black and gold accents, or Carnival Red with Sapphire Black and the same gold highlights. The paint extends to the panniers and top box.

    Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer, Triumph Motorcycles said: “The Tiger Sport 800 Tour combines the proven sports performance and agility of the Tiger Sport 800 and adds full touring specification, fitted as standard. This is a motorcycle our customers have been asking for, designed to enhance comfort and capability on longer adventures. By offering this level of specification at an attractive price, we’re making sports touring more accessible and creating a compelling option that will help us grow market share.”

    Service intervals are billed as class-leading and the bike carries a two-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, which also covers Genuine Triumph Accessories. Triumph lists 35 accessories for riders who want to tweak styling, protection or performance.
    Price and availability
    $23,290 rideaway in Australia Arriving February 2026 Orders open now via Triumph dealerships
    SPECIFICATIONS
    ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION
    Type: Liquid-cooled, 3 cylinders, 12 valves, DOHC
    Capacity: 798 cc
    Bore: 78.0 mm
    Stroke: 55.7 mm
    Compression: 13.2:1
    Maximum Power: 115 PS / 113 bhp (84.6 kW) @ 10,750 rpm
    Maximum Torque: 84 Nm @ 8,500 rpm
    Fuel System: Bosch Multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with electronic throttle control. 3 rider modes (Rain, Road, Sport)
    Exhaust: Stainless steel 3 into 1 header system with sided mounted stainless steel silencer
    Final Drive: X ring chain
    Clutch: Wet, multi-plate, slip & assist
    Gearbox: 6 speed, Triumph Shift Assist
    CHASSIS
    Frame: Tubular steel perimeter frame
    Swingarm: Twin-sided, fabricated pressed steel
    Front Wheel: Cast aluminium alloy, 5 spoke, 17 x 3.5 in
    Rear Wheel: Cast aluminium alloy, 5 spoke, 17 x 5.5 in
    Front Tyre: 120/70 R 17
    Rear Tyre: 180/55 R 17
    Front Suspension: Showa 41mm, upside-down separate function cartridge forks, adjustable compression and rebound damping, 150mm wheel travel
    The post Triumph Unveils Tiger Sport 800 Tour appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Flagship $49,300, 216hp hypersports bike now available to hire alongside BMW S1000RR at Phillip Island and SMSP ridedays for $545
    Motorcycling Events Group Australia (MEGA) and Ducati Australia & New Zealand have announced a major partnership kicking off 1 January 2026 that will put Ducati’s Panigale V4 S into the hands of everyday riders at MEGA Ride Days.
    The fleet of Panigale V4 S machines – shod with Pirelli tyres – will be available for hire at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit and Sydney Motorsport Park across more than 70 dates in 2026, with additional events planned beyond next year. The collaboration is the first step in a broader program of Ducati-curated experiences and track events.
    Bookings for the Panigale V4 Experience are now available at:
    Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP): https://www.smsprd.com/smsprd-ride-days
    Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit: https://www.phillipislandridedays.com.au/pird-ride-days
    Pricing and rider requirements
    From 1 January 2026, add $545 on top of a Ride Day booking to hire a Panigale V4 S. Bikes are fully track-prepared with fiberglass fairings and crash protection, and are fitted with Pirelli Rosso IV tyres. MEGA provides support throughout the day to keep the bike in top condition. Licence: A full, unrestricted motorcycle licence is required. International licences are accepted if in English or accompanied by a verified translation. Racing or competition licences are not accepted. Damage: Repairs are charged per incident up to a maximum of $6,500, with lower costs charged if repairs total less.
    Sergi Canovas, Managing Director, Ducati Australia & New Zealand:
    “This partnership gives riders the rare opportunity to experience our flagship superbike in the environment it was engineered for. Ducati and MEGA share a commitment to passion, trust and uncompromising quality, and we look forward to welcoming riders to the track in 2026.”
    Steve Brouggy, Managing Director, MEGA Events:
    “MEGA’s mission over the past three decades has been to provide extraordinary motorcycling experiences at racetracks. Our passion for delivering those experiences has not diminished from day one, and adding the opportunity to ride truly extraordinary motorcycles such as the Ducati V4S at the two best racetracks in the country, is something that only ignites our passion further! Making these outstanding motorcycles so easily accessible to the broader motorcycling community is a massive step forward in our never-ending quest to evolve and improve what each and every rider experiences at each and every Phillip Island Ride Day & SMSP Ride Day. I’d like to thank the entire team at Ducati Australia & New Zealand for providing this opportunity and working with us to bring an experience to Australian riders that is truly groundbreaking. In 2026 alone there will be over seventy dates to choose from where our fleet will be available for ordinary riders to have this extraordinary experience, with more being added in subsequent years. Myself and my crew are beyond excited to become part of the Ducati family, and look forward to working together for many years to come.”
    Read AMCN’s full review of the 2025 Ducati Panigale V4 S here
    Specifications

    ENGINE
    Capacity 1103cc
    Type V4, desmodromic, four valves per cylinder
    Bore & stroke 81mm x 53.5mm
    Compression ratio 14.0:1
    Cooling Liquid
    Fueling EFI, 2 x injectors per cylinder
    Transmission Six-speed
    Clutch Wet, multi-plate, slipper
    Final drive Chain
    PERFORMANCE
    Power 159kW (216hp) @ 13,500rpm (claimed)
    Torque 120Nm @ 11,250rpm (claimed)
    Top speed 300km/h (claimed)
    Fuel consumption 6.5L/100km (claimed)
    ELECTRONICS
    Type Bosch
    Rider aids Power Modes, Race ECBS, Ducati Vehicle Observer, Traction Control, Wheelie Control, Slide Control, Engine Brake Control, Power Launch (DPL), Electronic Suspension (DES) 3.0
    Rider modes Race A, Race B, Sport, Road, Wet
    CHASSIS
    Frame material Aluminium
    Frame type Front frame
    Rake 24°
    Trail 98mm
    Wheelbase 1485mm
    SUSPENSION
    Type Öhlins
    Front: NPX 25/30 S-EC 3.0 pressurised fully adjustable, electronic compression and rebound damping, 125mm travel
    Rear: TTX36 monoshock, fully adjustable with electronic compression and rebound damping, 130mm travel
    WHEELS & BRAKES
    Wheels Forged aluminium
    Front: 17 x 3.5 Rear: 17 x 6.0
    Tyres Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa
    Front: 120/70R17
    Rear: 200/60R17
    Brakes Brembo
    Front: Twin 330mm discs, four-piston Hypure calipers
    Rear: Single 245mm disc, twin-piston caliper
    DIMENSIONS
    Weight 187kg (wet, no fuel, claimed)
    Seat height 850mm
    Width Not given
    Height Not given
    Length Not given
    Ground clearance Not given
    Fuel capacity 17L
    SERVICING & WARRANTY
    Servicing 1000km
    Minor: 12,000km
    Major: 24,000km
    Warranty Two years, unlimited km
    BUSINESS END
    Price $49,300 (ride away)
    Colour options Ducati red
    CONTACT
    www.ducati.com/au/en
    The post Ducati Teams up with MEGA Ridedays to Provide Panigale V4 S Hire appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Motorcycling Events Group Australia (MEGA) has announced a significant expansion of its ride day offerings, adding Ducati motorcycles and Pirelli tyres to its lineup alongside existing partners BMW Motorrad and Alpinestars from January 1, 2026.
    The partnership will see a fleet of Ducati Panigale V4 S superbikes join the current BMW S 1000 RR hire bikes available at both Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit and Sydney Motorsport Park. All BMW and Ducati hire motorcycles will be fitted exclusively with Pirelli rubber, while Alpinestars continues as the riding apparel provider at both venues.

    MEGA founder and managing director Steve Brouggy described the expansion as a dream come true. “To be able to provide the two premium brands of motorcycles on the planet at the two premier circuits in Australia, all fitted with tyres from the leading tyre brand around the globe, is nothing short of a dream come true,” he said.
    Brouggy, who has operated MEGA for 31 years, said the partnerships would enable the company to explore wider options for existing ride days and develop highly specialised events moving forward.

    BMW Motorrad Australia general manager Steven Dunn confirmed the German marque’s continued involvement with MEGA. “BMW Motorrad is pleased to continue its long-standing partnership with MEGA in 2026. MEGA Ride Days remain a benchmark for professional and high-quality track experiences, and we’re proud that riders can continue to experience the capability of the S 1000 RR in its natural environment,” Dunn said.
    Ducati Australia and New Zealand managing director Sergi Canovas said the partnership gives riders a rare opportunity to experience the flagship Panigale V4 S on world-class circuits. “The Panigale V4 S represents the pinnacle of Ducati engineering, and being able to place riders in an environment that truly showcases its precision, power and racing DNA is tremendously exciting,” Canovas said.

    Link International general manager Brenden Stoeckert said riders will experience Pirelli’s premium Hypersport products from the Diablo Rosso Road Range on all BMW and Ducati hire bikes, with Diablo Superbike rubber available for premium experiences.
    Alpinestars product manager Steve Jennings welcomed the expanded fleet, noting the protection specialist has partnered with MEGA ride days for many years. “Adding Ducati to the fleet alongside BMW is an incredible opportunity for riders to experience the two best sports bikes on the market while wearing the best protective gear available,” Jennings said.

    Australian Racing Drivers’ Club CEO Glenn Matthews praised MEGA’s contribution to the Sydney Motorsport Park community over decades, while Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit commercial manager Luke Sibson congratulated the MEGA team and recognised Brouggy’s 31 years of dedication to safe motorcycling at the Victorian venue.
    Further information and bookings are available at phillipislandridedays.com.au and smsprd.com.
    Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his motorcycle, and is adamant that Melbourne Bitter is a world-class lager. He also knows how to operate the big computery thing in the office. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS.
    The post MEGA expands ride day fleet with Ducati Panigale V4 S and Pirelli partnership appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Aprilia-based V-twin hits production more than four years after it was first shown
    Way back in 2021 Chinese brand Zongshen unveiled the RA9 concept under its upscale Cyclone marque featuring the engine and frame from an Aprilia Shiver 900 under radical new bodywork and with a single-sided swingarm. It was promised for production but it’s taken until now for the showroom version to get its official launch as the Cyclone RA1000.

    Over those four years the Chinese bike industry has transformed beyond recognition. Back in 2021, the RA9 concept looked like one of the biggest and most advanced bikes yet to come from China, but today the Shiver-based underpinnings date it and rivals like CFMoto, Zontes and QJMotor as well as newcomers like Kove, ZXMoto and Souo have leapt forward with larger, more powerful and more exotic designs that are rapidly bringing China into direct competition with the European and Japanese companies that have dominated for decades.

    In its final production form, the RA1000 gets a revised version of Aprilia’s Shiver V-twin engine, a DOHC, 8-valve, liquid cooled motor that’s been punched out to 996cc thanks to an extra 5mm of bore – now 97mm – paired to the existing 67.4mm stroke, giving a peak of 78.5kW at 9,000rpm and 95Nm at 6,500rpm. Top speed is quoted to be 235km/h, and the kerb weight is a not-insubstantial 225kg. The frame is still visually similar to the Shiver’s, with a part alloy, part steel-tube design, and the show bike’s single-sided swingarm is retained along with its stubby-tailed look, giving a silhouette that’s more like a Ducati Diavel than a traditional roadster. An exaggerated 240-section rear tyre adds to the Diavel-ish impression, as does the low-mounted, stubby exhaust on the righthand side.

    Zongshen is among the most established bike makers in China, with a longstanding tie-in with Aprilia’s parent company, Piaggio – the two operate a joint-venture manufacturing facility in China to turn out Aprilias for that market – but it’s been slower than some rivals to expand onto the international stage. Where CFMoto, QJMotor, Kove and the likes of Voge have all rapidly grown their international presence, Cyclone is taking a more tentative approach. It does, however, have a presence in key European markets, as well as Asia and South America, and plans to enter more countries in the coming year.
    The post Zongshen Cyclone RA1000 finally launched appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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