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    New approval paperwork confirms Y-AMT version of Tracer 7 and Tracer 7 GT
    The sports-touring Yamaha Tracer 7 twin was updated for 2025 with new tech and styling but Yamaha left us baffled by not including the option of the Y-AMT automated manual transmission that’s already available on the MT-07 naked bike that the Tracer is based on.

    Yamaha’s Y-AMT is literally an automated version of its normal six-speed box, with actuators to engage the clutch and shift the gears at the command of the bike’s on-board computer or the rider at the touch of bar-mounted shift controls. It debuted on the MT-09 triple and the Tracer 9 GT that uses the same powertrain, as well as appearing on the twin-cylinder MT-07. Since the transmission seems so well-suited to a sports-touring application, it was surprising to see that Yamaha didn’t include the option on the new 2025 Tracer 7, despite the fact it shares the same engine as the MT-07 so adding Y-AMT would be incredibly simple.

    Now, a few months later, Yamaha is set to make that move. The Tracer 7 Y-AMT hasn’t yet been announced but new type-approval documents in Europe show the company has put four new versions of the Tracer 7 through the required testing – the standard Tracer 7 and the Tracer 7 GT, each with two power levels, 54kW or 35kW (the latter for European learner licence law compliance) – for the 2026 model range. The differences from the existing 2025 Tracer 7 are limited to a tiny change in the paperwork where the transmission type is specified, with the stock bike’s ‘M6’ designation, for ‘manual six-speed’, replaced by ‘M6a’ meaning an automated version of a six-speed manual.

    To confirm the update, there’s also a slight increase in weight, with the Tracer 7 Y-AMT coming in at 206kg instead of the manual version’s 203kg, while the luggage-equipped Tracer 7 GT Y-AMT is 214kg compared to 212kg for the manual model.
    With approval complete, the Tracer 7 Y-AMT is likely to be announced officially in the very near future.
    The post Yamaha Tracer 7 to get auto option in 2026 appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    New retro models based on GSX-8S platform
    We’ve been expecting Suzuki to launch more models based on the GSX-8S’s 776cc parallel twin for its 2026 model range, but despite rumours of a GSX-8GT sports tourer, the company has opted to add a pair of retro roadsters to the range.

    The GSX-8T and GSX-8TT are closely related siblings, both mechanically identical to the GSX-8S but trading that bike’s razor-sharp 21st-century styling for 1970s-inspired shapes and colours evoking bikes like the GS1000S. Both add all-new bodywork, including a larger 16.5-litre fuel tank instead of the 8S’s 14-litre unit, new side panels, new tails, and a retro face dominated by a new, circular LED headlight.

    The GSX-8TT gets a sportier edge by surrounding that lamp with a bar-mounted nose fairing and low screen, while the GSX-8T takes a naked approach, but aside from their colour options and a more retro, rolled seat material on the 8T, these two new models are otherwise inseparable.

    By borrowing all their mechanical parts from the GSX-8S, Suzuki has minimised development time and cost, while also simplifying the production process, expanding its range to appeal to more riders without making a huge R&D investment. The decision means that the 776cc parallel twin is already familiar, and makes the same 61kW peak at 8500rpm, along with maximum torque of 78Nm at 6800rpm, that we’ve already experienced on the 8S.

    Similarly, the new bikes have the same tubular steel frame, aluminium swingarm and KYB suspension as the GSX-8S, with non-adjustable upside-down forks and a preload-adjustable monoshock. Unsurprisingly, the brakes are also unaltered, with the familiar Nissin four-pot calipers and 310mm discs at the front and a single-piston caliper and 240mm disc at the back.


    The shared parts mean the new GSX-8T and TT get standard-fit bidirectional quickshifters, traction control and ABS, as well as a trio of riding modes and the same 5-inch TFT display that you’ll find on the GSX-8S. The pegs, seat and bars are also positioned much the same as those on the GSX-8S, so the big difference is one of styling rather than the riding experience.

    Suzuki hasn’t tried to mirror the appearance of a specific old model, instead offering a modern interpretation of general 1970s styling themes, most notably the GSX-8TT’s nose cowl, which has overtones of the Yoshimura GS1000S racers of the late 1970s. The new bikes’ profiles, though, are 21st-century, with short, high seat units and underbelly exhausts. Bar-end mirrors – rarely used on real 1970s bikes but often appearing on modern retro models evoking that era – are also added to the mix.

    For equivalent models from other manufacturers, the GSX-8T and TT come closest to Yamaha’s XSR700 and XSR900, as well as Kawasaki’s Z650RS and Z900RS. But in terms of power, performance and price, the Suzukis slide in a notch above the smaller, two-cylinder models from its rivals, but below the larger, three-cylinder XSR900 and four-cylinder Z900RS, plugging a niche that means they don’t have many one-for-one competitors. Honda’s ageing CB650R is perhaps the closest in terms of its neo-retro appearance and its performance, but its four-cylinder engine means it’s quite a different prospect to the twin-cylinder Suzukis from a mechanical point of view.

    If you’re holding out for that GSX-8GT sports-tourer, don’t fear: Suzuki’s dedication to spreading its parallel twin platform into as many market segments as possible means just such a bike is likely to be added to the range at some stage in the future to compete with Yamaha’s Tracer models. We might just have to wait another year before it’s ready for launch.

    The post Suzuki launches GSX-8T and GSX-8TT appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Suzuki Motorcycles has tonight revealed its new GSX-8GT and GSX-8GTT pair, the newest members to join the brand’s 776cc parallel-twin family, this time taking on a modern retro form.
    Both the Suzuki GSX-8GT and the GSX-8GTT are built on a familiar platform that underpins the GSX-8S naked bike, GSX-8R sportsbike and V-Strom 800 adventure bike, but bring retro design cues like a round headlight, tuck-and-roll seat, bar-end mirrors, a unique fuel tank design and side covers, as well as a stainless steal muffler cover.

    The ‘TT’ version plays as an up-spec variant, gaining a headlight cowl which is said to pay homage to late 70s and early 80s mini-faired bikes, among other minor touches.
    The GSX-8T will be available at $17,990 rideaway, while the GSX-8TT is priced at $18,990. Both models are expected to arrive at Suzuki dealerships across Australia in the fourth quarter of this year.

    Motivating both bikes, which tip the scales at just 201kg (wet), is a 776cc parallel-twin engine generating 61kW and 78Nm.
    New is a lithium-ion battery and a fast-charging USB-C port, while familiar equipment from the family include a 5.0-inch TFT dash, an up-down quickshifter and KYB suspension.
    1 of 11 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 Suzuki GSX-8GT, GSX-8GTT pricing and specs confirmed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Triumph Motorcycles will enter one of the world’s most notorious hard enduro events, the 2025 Red Bull Romaniacs, aboard Tiger 900 middleweight adventure bikes. 
    The event will take place from 22-26 July in Sibiu, Romania, where Jonny Walker and Sam Sunderland will attempt to complete the grueling course on ‘near standard’ Triumph Tiger 900s fitted with ‘only a small number of race parts’.

    “I’ve raced Romaniacs plenty of times,” said Jonny Walker.
    “So it’s cool to be going back in a completely different way racing the Tiger 900 which I’m really excited about. I’m pretty confident, I think it will be fun and of course the main goal is to win the Adventure Ultimate class.
    “It’s going to be totally different to anything I’ve done before, and probably a bit more enjoyable on the big bike!”

    Triumph Motorcycles Brand Ambassador Sam Sunderland, a two-time Dakar Rally winner and former FIM World Rally-Raid Champion, will contest the Adventure Lite class, marking his competitive debut on Triumph machinery.
    “It’s super exciting to be taking on such an iconic hard enduro race,” said Sunderland.

    “The adventure classes are a great way to get involved and I can’t wait to get out to Romania to get stuck in.
    “It’s more similar to what I have done in rally-raid in the past, especially with the five-day format, and I’m looking forward to getting into race mode again.
    “My Triumph Tiger 900 will be pretty much standard, so it’s going to be cool to put it to the
    test.”

    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 Triumph to tackle grueling Romaniacs hard enduro aboard Tiger 900 adventure bikes appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    20-year-old rising Spanish rider killed during JuniorGP test session in France
    Spanish motorcycle racer Borja Gomez has died following a crash during testing at Magny-Cours ahead of this weekend’s JuniorGP round. He was 20 years old.
    The incident occurred during a pre-event test session at the French circuit when Gomez crashed alone and was subsequently struck by a following rider. Despite immediate medical attention, the severity of his injuries proved fatal.

    Gomez, from San Javier in the Spanish region of Murcia, had been one of Spain’s most promising young talents in road racing. In 2024, he was competing in the European Superstock Championship aboard a Honda CBR600RR, and had been leading the series heading into this weekend’s round in France. His speed had earned him a second-place finish at Estoril and a commanding victory at Jerez.
    Simultaneously, he had been contesting the European Superbike Championship on a Honda CBR1000RR-R, a series sanctioned by the RFME. Gomez had dominated the opening half of the season, winning four of the first six races and once again leading the championship standings.
    Beyond his racing commitments, Gomez had taken on a valuable role with Honda Racing Corporation’s World Superbike project, joining the official test team in European pre-season testing alongside Tetsuta Nagashima. The experience further underlined Gomez’s rising trajectory within the global road racing community.

    Gomez’s international racing career had gathered pace through 2022 and 2023, when he made 15 starts in the Moto2 World Championship. His best result came at the 2023 Austrian Grand Prix, where he crossed the line in 16th. In addition, he made four appearances in the World Supersport Championship between 2021 and 2024, scoring points in both Cremona and Aragon last season aboard a Kawasaki ZX-6R.
    A highly respected figure in the paddock despite his young age, Gomez was known for his maturity, dedication, and natural ability on two wheels.
    The AMCN team extends its deepest condolences to Borja Gomez’s family, friends, and the wider racing community.
    The post Rising Star Borja Gomez Dies in Magny-Cours Crash appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    New four-cylinder pocket-rocket is an export model
    Chinese brand Kove is heading to the Australian market in 2026 as it unveils a revised version of its intriguing four-cylinder, 443cc sports bike, the 450RR.
    The new machine has already emerged in Chinese type-approval paperwork, including photos and basic technical specs, showing that its styling has been subtly revised compared to the current model.
    Originally revealed in 2022 as a 400cc four called the 400RR, Kove’s race-rep was restyled and up-engined to become the 443cc 450RR in 2023 before deliveries even started, with Ducati Panigale-ish styling and performance designed to compete with Kawasaki’s ZX-4RR.
    The new version updates the looks once more but leaves the main mechanical parts unchanged. The biggest revision is at the nose, where the current model’s separate, side-mounted winglets are replaced with a design more in keeping with the latest MotoGP trends – not to mention the most recent version of the Ducati Panigale V4. So the two winglets now merge into a single, curved section that bisects the nose below the headlights. Shifting the wings forward increases their leverage and exposes them to cleaner airflow than the original versions, which sat farther back and lower on the fairing sides.

    While the red paint in these images serves to emphasise similarities with Ducati’s Panigale, the Kove isn’t a one-for-one copy and has several elements that have been present since the original, much more angular version that was launched in 2022. Those include headlights set back into the nose, giving a hooded look, and a central intake that feeds air to Kove’s own four-cylinder engine.
    That engine puts out 52kW (70hp) at 13,000rpm and isn’t altered for the new version of the bike. Nor is the aluminium trellis chassis or the suspension, including a 4mm USD fork and a remote reservoir rear shock. The latest approvals show two different brake calipers, with the Taisco four-pots of the current model offered alongside a new design – still radial four-pistons but looking more like Yamaha’s signature Blue Spot calipers, with external piston retention plugs clearly visible.
    The approval document shows key figures, including the impressively light 165kg kerb weight, are unchanged as are the 1385mm wheelbase and 220km/h top speed.
    Although Kove is likely to focus on its adventure and rally bike ranges when it enters the Australian market, including the 450 Rally single and the 800X parallel twin adventure bike, the 450RR is being offered in some export markets so might come here.
    Kove plans to launch a larger four-cylinder version, probably 700cc, to compete with CFMoto’s soon-to-be-launched 750SR-R.
    The post Restyled RR Kove For Oz? appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    “We’ve not yet finally answered it”
    In an Exclusive interview for AMCN , BMW Motorrad CEO Markus Flasch told Alan Cathcart the German company is still undecided about whether it will join MotoGP under the upcoming 850cc formula in 2027, despite ongoing speculation.
    “The question of MotoGP for BMW has been a topic for discussion for a long time, and I assure you that we have still not yet finally answered it,” Flasch said. Pressed on whether a strategic decision has yet to be made, Flasch confirmed: “That’s exactly what I’m saying.”
    Markus Flasch has the 2006 BMW 990cc MotoGP 3 cylinder prototype in his office With the 850cc era just 18 months away, Flasch indicated BMW has not yet begun technical development on a MotoGP machine. “We’ll make the strategic decision first, and then we’ll define the technical path which we’ll follow. 2027 is definitely not feasible for us to join in then,” he said. “We are constantly working on our motorsport strategy – GP is one option, offroad is another option, also WSBK is not such a bad thing, it’s just very European. So please give us some more months and we’ll come out with an answer!”
    When asked whether BMW’s continued presence in World Superbike made sense given Europe’s dominance in their sales, Flasch responded: “But then the question is, do you invest in motorsport to please your fans, or to reach out to people that don’t know you?”
    Flasch also addressed concerns that the new MotoGP regulations could lead to World Superbikes outperforming MotoGP machines, potentially forcing changes to WSBK. “I don’t have an answer to that yet,” he said. “This is up to Dorna to resolve – but since they are in control of both series, they will surely find a way not to have the two categories compete with each other.”
    The post BMW CEO Teases on MotoGP Future appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Keenly-awaited adventure bike nears production – but exactly how big is it?
    Royal Enfield has confirmed that its much-anticipated twin-cylinder Himalayan is nearly ready for production, sharing images on Instagram of CEO B. Govindarajan and British design boss Mark Wells testing it in India’s rugged Ladakh region. The test team was also joined by the latest prototype of the electric Himalayan, or ‘Him-E’, showing both models are in their final stages of development.

    The twin-cylinder Himalayan is believed to feature either the existing 650cc parallel-twin or a larger 750cc version, derived from Enfield’s air-cooled platform but tuned for added power and torque.
    Unlike the brand’s retro-styled twins, the Himalayan twin adopts a modern chassis with an alloy swingarm, monoshock rear suspension, upside-down fork and minimalist bodywork – apart from a classic circular headlight. Its 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels, dual front discs and close-fitting mudguard suggest a bias towards street-oriented adventure riding rather than hardcore off-roading.

    Onboard tech appears to include a circular colour TFT display rather than the rectangular screens popular with rivals, while practical touches like a high-mounted exhaust silencer and substantial bash plate speak to its adventure credentials.
    The electric Himalayan, in contrast, looks more focused on off-road ability. It features a 21-inch front wheel, knobbly tires, a slim one-piece seat, and a tankless design that allows for better rider movement. The latest prototype shows major changes from the 2023 version, with twin battery packs flanking a central structure, improved cooling fins, and a more refined trellis-style frame. Its styling has evolved too, with shaped side panels and protective tubing giving it a more muscular stance, likely accommodating more cells for extended range.

    The production version of the twin-cylinder Himalayan is expected to debut later this year as a 2026 model, with further news on the electric variant anticipated around the same time.

    The post Himalayan Twin on Final Testing appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Aussie retailing giant Peter Stevens Motorcycles has found new owners amidst financial struggles, however, five dealerships will close. 
    The administrators of Peter Stevens Motorcycles this week announced that the Joe Rascal Group will purchase three Harley-Heaven stores including Dandenong, Ringwood and Melbourne, as well as taking ownership of Peter Stevens Ducati South Melbourne.
    Meanwhile, ASX-listed Motorcycle Holdings Ltd will acquire seven Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven outlets around Australia.
    Peter Stevens Motorcycles stores in Geelong, Ringwood and Bankstown, the Harley Heaven Bankstown and Melbourne City Triumph store will have to be closed by the administrators as no offers were received.
    Motorcycle Holdings Ltd CEO Matthew Wiesner said the company would maintain the Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven brands in the market.
    “We intend to continue growing the Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven brands in these strategic locations and deliver for their many loyal customers. These new stores will benefit from our scale of operations, particularly in relation to purchasing, supplier relationships and from the support our corporate teams can provide,” he said.
    KordaMentha’s Craig Shepard said the Administrators were “pleased to have found two highly credentialed purchasers in the Joe Rascal Group and Motorcycle Holdings Ltd, ensuring the Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven brands can continue and provide ongoing employment for around 250 employees.”
    According to a statement from KordaMentha, there are several conditions precedent to be met before the sales can be finalised, including obtaining regulatory approvals from motor dealer licensing authorities in each state.
    Unfortunately, Peter Stevens Motorcycles stores in Geelong, Ringwood and Bankstown, the Harley Heaven Bankstown and Melbourne City Triumph store will have to be closed by the Administrators as no offers were received. The Administrators will assist employees from these locations during the transition to closure.
    The post Peter Stevens and Harley-Heaven find new owners, some locations to close appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Major parts of the iconic motorcycle retail network sold to Joe Rascal Group and Motorcycle Holdings, securing jobs and ensuring the brands continue across Australia
    KordaMentha have released a statement announcing that a large portion of Peter Stevens Motorcycles’ retail network has been acquired by new owners after the company went into administration in May. In what the administrators are calling a successful and competitive sale process, two major players have emerged to secure the future of the iconic brands: Joe Rascal Group and ASX-listed Motorcycle Holdings Ltd (ASX:MTO).
    The deals will see the Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven brands continue in major metropolitan locations across Australia, safeguarding around 250 jobs and ensuring continuity for a loyal customer base that spans generations of riders.
    Joe Rascal Group Accelerates into Premium Market with Harley and Ducati
    The Joe Rascal Group, headed by James Tonna and Barry Fitzpatrick, will take ownership of four key Victorian dealerships. These include:
    Harley Heaven Dandenong Harley Heaven Ringwood Harley Heaven Melbourne Peter Stevens Ducati South Melbourne This strategic acquisition sees Joe Rascal Group forge strong partnerships with global motorcycle powerhouses Harley-Davidson and Ducati.
    “Joe Rascal Group is thrilled to be able to acquire these stores and partner with iconic brands Harley-Davidson and Ducati,” explained Mr. Tonna. “These stores have a strong reputation for quality and customer service, and we are excited to build on that foundation.”
    Tonna further emphasized the group’s ambitions: “We look forward to integrating their expertise and offerings into our operations, and we are confident that this acquisition will drive significant growth and innovation for us in the years to come.”
    Motorcycle Holdings Expands National Footprint
    In a major move that significantly boosts its retail outlet portfolio, Motorcycle Holdings Ltd, owners of Motorcycle Accessories Supermarket (MCAS), will acquire seven stores across Australia including the online business. The sites are:
    Peter Stevens Dandenong Peter Stevens Adelaide Savage Motorcycles Perth Harley Heaven Sydney Harley Heaven Penrith Harley Heaven Perth Harley Heaven Adelaide Motorcycle Holdings CEO Matthew Wiesner announced that the newly acquired businesses will operate as a separate division under the leadership of COO Michael Poynton.
    “We’re excited to integrate these sites into our group. Importantly, we will retain the Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven brand identities and place a strong focus on continuing their legacy of customer service and expert motorcycle retail,” Wiesner said.
    “Our scale will provide benefits particularly in key operational areas such as purchasing and supplier relationships, as well as the corporate support that can help accelerate their growth.”
    As per a letter sent to staff, MCH confirmed that more than 200 roles—spanning retail, e-commerce, and head office operations—will be preserved under the new structure. The transition will include a handover process, subject to motor dealership licensing approvals across multiple states, with a target completion date in mid-July.
    Closure of Unsold Stores a Bitter Pill
    Despite the successful sales, several stores will sadly not remain operational. The Administrators confirmed that no suitable offers were received for:
    Peter Stevens Motorcycles Geelong Peter Stevens Motorcycles Ringwood Peter Stevens Motorcycles Bankstown Harley Heaven Bankstown Melbourne City Triumph These locations will be closed, and the Administrators have committed to supporting affected employees through the transition process.
    Craig Shepard of KordaMentha, the appointed administrator, remarked: “We are pleased to have found two highly credentialed purchasers in the Joe Rascal Group and Motorcycle Holdings Ltd. This outcome gives a future to the Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven brands and preserves employment for approximately 250 people.”
    Looking Ahead: Stability and Growth for Legendary Aussie Motorcycle Brands
    As the motorcycle retail sector continues evolving with the growing influence of e-commerce, electric motorcycles, and shifting rider demographics, these strategic acquisitions show that established brands still have a strong role to play. For staff, suppliers, and customers alike, the new ownership means Aussie riders can continue to rely on these iconic names for sales, servicing, and community into the future.
    The post New Owners for Peter Stevens and Harley Heaven appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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