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    RiderBOT
    Australian approval filings reveal a GT and new mystery model
    Suzuki is set to add a GSX-8GT and one other mystery variant based on the same platform to its 2026 range and the upcoming models have already been approved for sale in the Australian market.
    Suzuki’s 776cc parallel-twin engine might have spent more than a decade in development before hitting the market but it’s proving to be a key element of the company’s future plans. It’s already on the market in the GSX-8S, GSX-8R and four variations on the V-Strom 800. Next year at least another two bikes using the same engine are set to join the range.
    We know this because Suzuki’s latest type-approval documents, filed in Australia, include reference to a pair of as-yet-unreleased machines. But thanks to the use of internal code lettering rather than their final names we can use a process of deduction to work out what they are.

    Currently, Suzuki’s 800 twins can be broadly split into two lines: the DL800 V-Strom models and the GSX-8 streetbikes. We’re looking at the latter here. At the moment there are two versions: the GSX800RQ is the model we know as the GSX-8S roadster, while the GSX800FRQ is the GSX-8R sportsbike. Both share the same engine spec and chassis, so their similar designations and shared type approval make sense. But for 2026 the approval documents include not only the RQ and FRQ variants, but also a GSX800TRQ and a GSX800TTRQB.
    While the internal designations for the new bikes are listed, and their appearance on the same type-approval paperwork as the GSX-8S and GSX-8R means they share the same engine spec and emissions levels, there are no photos or further specs for the TRQ and TTRQB versions. Fortunately, Suzuki’s existing model range gives some very clear clues as to what the bikes will be.
    Incoming Suzuki GSX-8GT Since both new models use the TRQ letters in their designations as well as sharing the same main mechanical parts, it’s likely they’re two versions of one model rather than two distinctly different bikes. What’s more, Suzuki already uses the TRQ code on an existing bike: the GSX-S1000TRQ, which is sold as the GSX-S1000GT. That leads to the obvious conclusion that the GSX800TRQ will be marketed as a GSX-8GT. In some countries the GSX-S1000GT is sold in two versions, the GT and the fully loaded GT+ that’s offered in the US, so there’s a strong possibility the expanded letter code on the GSX800TTRQB references an optioned-out GT+ version of the GSX-8, complete with luggage. Alternatively, it could hint at an additional variant more akin to the GSX-S1000GX.
    The shared approval means we can conclude that the GSX-8GT will have the same 62kW (83hp) output as the other models using the 776cc parallel twin, and that its main chassis components are also likely to be common with the GSX-8S and GSX-8R models.
    Where it’s sure to differ is the styling and riding position, and we can look to the GSX-S1000GT for clues there. Like the GSX-8R, this model is likely to get a full fairing, but it’s sure to be taller and wider than the sportier R model, with broader, higher ‘bars and a more protective screen, potentially adjustable, to add to its touring credentials. That spec means it will be going up against rivals like Yamaha’s Tracer 7, BMW’s F 900 XR and Triumph’s new Tiger Sport 800.
    The post Suzuki Expands GSX-8 Range appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Team Triumph helps drive The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride to record-breaking success, raising $130,000 for Movember as over 127,000 riders worldwide unite for men’s health
    DGR at Melbourne, Australia In a record-breaking year for The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride (DGR), more than 127,000 riders around the world raised an incredible US$7.6 million (A$11.66M) in support of men’s mental health and prostate cancer research through Movember. Among them was Triumph Motorcycles’ official rider group, Team Triumph, which alone raised a remarkable US$130,000 (A$199,480).
    Zürich DGR, the only Gentleman’s Ride in the world that uses several ferries to transport participants across a lake. Founded in Sydney in 2012 by Mark Hawwa, The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride has grown from a stylish tribute to classic motorcycling into the world’s largest charitable motorcycling event. This year’s ride, held on Sunday, May 18, 2025, spanned 1038 cities across 108 countries, with participants donning dapper attire and firing up vintage and modern classic bikes in a united charge for men’s health.
    “This year marks our most successful yet – not just in funds raised, but in lives reached and conversations started,” Hawwa said. “Together with Triumph Motorcycles, we are driving a movement that saves lives and reminds folks around the world that men’s health matters everywhere.”
    Mark Hawwa at Madrid DGR Team Triumph’s contribution stood out not only for its fundraising total but also for its camaraderie and presence at key rides around the globe. Among the 491 members were high-profile names from the worlds of entertainment and motorsport. 007 stunt coordinator Lee Morrison took part on a Bonneville Bobber, while four-time Enduro World Champion and James Bond stunt rider Paul Edmondson tackled the roads of Warwickshire aboard a Scrambler 400 X.
    “What an event! It’s great to see so many Triumphs and classic bikes all in one place – and it’s a brilliant showcase for our biker community. Lots of money raised too, for a cause that means a lot to me and so many others,” Edmondson noted.
    Hand-painted commemorative Triumph tank Musicians also got in on the ride. Skinny Kangur, bassist for industrial metal band Deathstars, rode a Bonneville T120 Icon Edition in Stockholm, where he and his team raised around 110,000 SEK (approx. US$11,480 / A$17,600). “What a great day we had. A fantastic event made possible by the DGR Stockholm hosts and their sponsors,” he said.
    In the UK, Dougie Poynter of pop-rock band McFly rode a Speed Twin 900 at the London ride. “This was my first DGR and I loved it! Having bikers all unite and connect for a good cause feels incredible and personally for me it felt like Christmas!”
    McFly’s Dougie Poynter at London DGR Across the Atlantic, World Champion MMA fighter Impa Kasanganay participated in the Los Angeles ride on a Speed Twin 1200 RS. He echoed the sentiment felt by many first-timers worldwide: “Participating in this year’s Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride was one of the most memorable experiences of my life… Riding alongside fellow enthusiasts to raise awareness for men’s mental health and prostate care – it was a privilege to be part of something far greater than ourselves.”
    South Africa DGR Globally, the top DGR fundraiser for 2025 was Canadian Joseph Mancinelli, who participated in Hamilton, Ontario and brought in US$62,624.75 (A$96,084), earning a Triumph Bonneville Scrambler 1200 Icon Edition. His total contributions since he began riding DGR in 2017 now top US$550,000 (A$844,000). Joining him in the top three and receiving their own Triumph Modern Classic bikes are Andrew Cook of Idaho (US$56,640 / A$86,906) and Nick Politis of Florida (US$46,999 / A$72,114).
    DGR in Orange County California In Australia, 5,152 riders participated across dozens of cities, raising a combined total of US$573,038 (A$879,109) – placing the country third globally behind the United States and England.
    Top Aussie fundraiser Johnny Barron of Toowoomba, Queensland, raised US$7779 (A$11,940) riding his Triumph Bonneville. His efforts since 2022 have brought in over US$24,000 (A$37,295). WA’s Miles Kennedy (US$7,278 / A$11,165) and Brisbane’s Malcolm Duff (US$6,032 / A$9,254) completed Australia’s top-three fundraisers.
    DGR in South Korea, with 115 riders raising 3,173 USD Australia’s most successful DGR cities were Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide — with Sydney leading the national leaderboard by contributing US$85,946 (A$131,897) from 584 riders.
    The winner of this year’s Gentlefolk Prize draw was Joseph Mannion, who rode in Manchester in the UK and will take home a brand-new Bonneville Bobber.
    This year also marks a milestone in the partnership between Triumph and Movember, celebrating 10 years of collaboration. Dan Cooper, Movember’s Director of Global Innovations, presented Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Director Ramsey Sayed with a unique, hand-painted Triumph tank at the London event to commemorate the decade-long partnership.
    São Paulo DGR “Thank you to these incredible fundraisers who raise such large sums for Movember at the DGR year after year,” said Paul Stroud, Chief Commercial Officer at Triumph. “We’re delighted to reward the top four with iconic models from our Modern Classic range… It was fantastic to see so many riders showing how much our community cares about men’s health.”
    Triumph’s long-standing dedication to the ride, its riders, and the cause is part of a larger mission to unite motorcycle culture with meaningful community impact — one mile at a time.
    The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride will return in 2026, with next year’s event scheduled for Sunday, May 17. For more information or to register, visit: www.gentlemansride.com
    Tokyo DGR The post Triumph and DGR Ride into the Record Books appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Horner brothers shift focus from Super Hooligan rounds to iconic US event
    In a move that blends pragmatism with ambition, Melbourne’s Irving Vincent team – led by Ken and Barry Horner – has announced it will skip the final two rounds of the 2025 Super Hooligan Championship at Laguna Seca and Mid-Ohio. Instead, the team is focusing all efforts on a return to Daytona Bike Week in March 2026, marking 18 years since their famous 2008 Battle of the Twins victory.

    “We were originally going to do the two meetings in July and August this year,” said Ken Horner. “But it would’ve been a huge effort for comparatively little gain. So instead, we’re putting everything into Daytona. Daytona means something – it’s not just a weekend meeting. The whole town gets taken over by bikes, there’s half a million extra people there. It’s a proper event.”
    The plan is to field two Irving Vincents in MotoAmerica’s Super Hooligan class –both air-cooled twins, one 1620cc and the other stretched to 1760cc for improved reliability. Both machines are in development at the team’s southeast Melbourne workshop, with a planned shakedown at Sydney Motorsport Park in August.

    MotoAmerica has welcomed the Irving Vincent entry, having confirmed its eligibility after years of regulatory hurdles at home. “The rules are a lot more generous for air-cooled because they’re just wanting variety on the grid,” Horner said. “I think the only other air-cooled bike will be an Arch – the Keanu Reeves bike – they’ve built a special one for that series.”
    The 2008 Daytona win, achieved with minimal testing, put the Irving Vincent name on the global racing map. This time, the team is determined to build on that success with more preparation. “We know from last time how little testing we got away with – just half a day at Broadford and another at Phillip Island before shipping the bike to the States. I don’t think we’ll get away with doing as little this time.”

    Beau Beaton will ride at Daytona, while Craig McMartin – who claimed the 2008 victory – is keen to join the team, pending the 2026 ASBK calendar. Supporting the effort is K.H. Equipment, the Horner brothers’ Houston-based business, which will serve as the team’s US base and could enable further American outings.
    “Houston becomes the base,” Horner said. “The containers will go straight there and we’ll truck everything to Daytona. After that, we’ll reassess our options.”
    The post Irving Vincent targets 2026 Daytona 18 years after landmark win appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Australian Supercross icon earns place among the US greats after a legendary two-decade career in AMA competition
    Australia’s most decorated motocross export, Chad Reed, is set to be officially immortalised in American motorcycling history, with confirmation that he will be inducted into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025.
    Reed amassed 132 AMA Supercross podiums before retiring in 2020 Reed’s induction will take place during this year’s AMA Hall of Fame Days, held on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Violet Township Event Center in Pickerington, Ohio—just steps away from the American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) headquarters. The celebration includes an induction ceremony followed by a reception at the prestigious AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

    Few riders have made as big an impact on American Supercross and Pro Motocross as Chad Reed. Debuting on U.S. soil as a teenager in 1999, the Kurri Kurri native launched into stardom in 2002 by dominating the 125cc East Supercross series—winning the first six rounds and taking the championship title. That would only be the beginning of a career spanning nearly two decades, filled with grit, determination, and an unrelenting commitment to success.
    Reed holding aloft the 2008 AMA Supercross championship trophy By the time Reed retired, his CV included two AMA Supercross Championships (2004, 2008), one AMA 125cc East title (2002), and the 2009 AMA Pro Motocross 450cc Championship. He earned AMA Athlete of the Year honours that same year and currently holds the all-time record for most AMA Supercross Main Event starts (265) and podium finishes (132). In total, Reed amassed 61 AMA professional wins across Supercross and Motocross disciplines.

    His versatility and longevity were matched by a natural charisma that made him one of the sport’s international icons. Reed competed for various teams over the years, including a successful stint with Yamaha and a championship-winning effort with Rockstar Energy Makita Suzuki in 2009. He also became synonymous with privateer success, launching his own race teams through later chapters in his career.
    Beyond American soil, Reed remained a proud ambassador for Australian motocross. He won four Australian Supercross Championships and flew the flag high for Team Australia at the Motocross of Nations. His incredible effort in 2011 to win the combined MX1/MX2 moto in France further sealed his reputation as a world-class competitor.
    That same year, Reed was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM), recognising his outstanding achievements and contributions to sport.
    Reed’s last AMA podium in Detroit, 2018 The 2025 AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremony will also welcome fellow competition legends Colin Edwards (Road Racing) and Joe Kopp (Dirt Track), as well as influential figures Dana Bell and Chris Carter under non-competition and well-qualified categories, respectively.
    For Australian fans and supporters of the global Supercross scene, Reed’s induction is not just a recognition of individual excellence, but a celebration of a rider who helped shape and globalise the sport.

    CHAD REED CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
    1997 Australian Junior Motocross Champion 1999 Australian Supercross Champion 2000 Australian Supercross Champion 2001 Motocross of Nations (Belgium) – Race 2 (125/250), 1st Place 2002 AMA Eastern Regional Supercross Champion 2003 U.S Open Champion 2003 FIM World Supercross GP Champion 2004 U.S Open Champion 2004 AMA Supercross Champion 2005 X-Games Supermoto – Bronze Medal 2007 King of Bercy Supercross Champion 2007 Motocross of Nations (USA) – Race 1 (MX1/MX2), 2nd Place 2008 AMA/FIM World Supercross Champion 2008 Australian Supercross Champion 2009 Monster Energy Triple Crown Motocross Champion 2009 AMA National Pro Motocross Champion 2009 Motocross of Nations (Italy) – Race 1 (MX1/MX2), 2nd Place 2009 AMA Athlete of the Year 2009 Australian Supercross Champion 2011 Motocross of Nations (France) – Race 1 (MX1/MX2), 1st Place 2016 AUS-X Open Champion 2018 The Ironman of Supercross (Most AMA Supercross Starts Record) 2018 SX-Open Champion 2018 FIM Oceania Supercross Champion The post Chad Reed to be Inducted into AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Patent shows simple system to move the bars and pegs on-the-fly
    A motorcycle that can transform on the move from race-rep crouch to a comfortable upright riding position has been something manufacturers have imagined for decades – at least going back to the 1989 Yamaha Morpho concept demonstrated precisely that – but there’s still no showroom offering that can actually achieve that goal. Now CFMOTO has filed patent applications for a system that could finally bring an adaptable riding position to production models without a ground-up redesign and vast price tag.

    The system is based around two elements: movable bars that can rise or lower electrically depending on your requirements, and footpegs that swing upwards and rearwards for a sportier posture or down and forwards for a more relaxed position.
    Starting at the front, the movable bars in CFMOTO’s patent are mounted on normal, upside-down forks, with a conventional steering stem and triple clamps. The difference is that the bars themselves are attached to an aluminium bracket that sits above the top yoke, mounted on two sliders that drop into corresponding holes on the yoke. A third shaft extends down from the handlebar bracket in front of the steering head into an electromechanical actuator that raises or lowers that shaft – and with it the bar mounting bracket and the bars themselves – at the command of an on-board computer. The shape of the bars themselves means that when they’re at their lowest position they’re like low-slung sport bike clip-ons, but when raised they adopt a position more like the one-piece bar you’d find on a roadster. The advantage of the system is that it could be adopted on virtually any motorcycle, simply by adding the new top yoke, actuator and bars, without changing the main structure of the chassis.

    The footpegs also move using a simple system, each getting their own linear electromechanical actuator, and can mount on a normal bike’s chassis if it has the sort of two-bolt, triangulated footpeg hanger that most sports bikes use. The trick is that the upper of those two bolt holes in the chassis becomes a pivot point in the centre of a longer alloy bar, with the footpeg on the rear end and the linear actuator on the front, where it’s clamped or bolted to the main frame. Extend the actuator upwards and the footpeg bracket see-saws on that pivot point, lowering the peg and bringing it forward in an arc. Retract the actuator and the peg goes upwards and backwards into a sportier position. A two-piece secondary linkage attaches the peg to the lower of the two footpeg hanger mounting holes, providing additional lateral bracing but hinging in the vertical plane to allow the peg to move.

    It’s a simple system, so why hasn’t it been done before? The answer could lie in the recent proliferation of semi-automatic gearshifts. You’ll notice that the patents make no provision to move a gear shifter or rear brake pedal along with the footpegs – doing so would add a whole new layer of complication – but if there’s a semi-auto, pushbutton shifter and automated clutch, and the back brake is moved to the left bar, the foot controls can be eliminated, allowing CFMOTO’s simple active riding position system to be easily adopted.
     
     
    The post CFMOTO creating variable riding position bike appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    A new era dawns for two-wheeled racing as F1 owners set sights on expanding MotoGP’s global reach
    Liberty Media’s ambitious acquisition of Dorna Sports S.L., the commercial rights holder of MotoGP™, has moved one step closer to completion following unconditional clearance from the European Commission. The green light from Brussels was the final regulatory hurdle, paving the way for Liberty’s full entry into the world of premier motorcycle racing. The deal is expected to be finalised by or before 3 July 2025.
    The transaction marks the beginning of a significant new era for both MotoGP™ and WorldSBK, which Dorna also manages, alongside other championships such as the FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WorldWCR).

    Liberty Media, the company behind Formula 1’s commercial success in recent years, will now look to apply its global media expertise to advance motorcycle racing’s commercial position, grow its international fanbase, and boost visibility across platforms.
    “Today’s approval from the European Commission marks the final condition to closing Liberty’s acquisition of MotoGP. We are thrilled to officially commence Liberty’s partnership with Carmelo and his excellent management team,” said Liberty Media President and CEO Derek Chang. “MotoGP is a highly attractive premium sports asset with incredible racing, a passionate fanbase and a strong cash flow profile. We believe the sport and brand have significant growth potential, which we will look to realize through deepening the connection with the core fan base and expanding to a wider global audience.”
    Carmelo Ezpeleta Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta, who has led the organisation since 1998, will continue at the helm post-acquisition. Under Ezpeleta’s leadership, MotoGP™ has evolved into one of the most dynamic motorsports on the planet, blending premier racing with strong commercial appeal.
    “We are very happy that the European Commission has approved the transaction. This is an important milestone confirming the even brighter future that lies ahead,” Ezpeleta said. “MotoGP is one of the most thrilling sports on Earth, and we look forward to accelerating the sport’s growth and expanding its reach to even more fans around the world. Liberty is the best possible partner for our sport and the entire community, and we are excited to create even greater value for our fans, commercial partners and everyone competing.”
    Once complete, Liberty Media will hold an 84% stake in Dorna Sports, with MotoGP’s existing management team retaining the remaining 16%, ensuring a level of continuity as the series embarks on its next phase under new ownership.

    Formula 1’s recent boom in mainstream popularity can largely be credited to a more dynamic and accessible media strategy, spearheaded by Liberty Media’s efforts since taking the reins in 2017. A key element in that success has been Drive to Survive, the hit Netflix docuseries that offers fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to the lives of drivers, team managers and the intense rivalries playing out in the paddock. This candid, drama-driven approach has helped reel in a new generation of fans—particularly younger and more international audiences—recasting F1 not just as a motorsport, but as a high-stakes, emotionally charged human drama.

    With MotoGP and WorldSBK now under the same corporate umbrella, the potential to adapt a similar storytelling approach is significant. While MotoGP has seen its share of popular documentary-style features, some fans—and even past and present riders—have remarked that current rivalries lack the heat and depth that once characterised the sport’s golden eras. With Liberty’s media savvy and reach, there’s a clear opportunity to reignite interest by giving fans greater behind-the-scenes access and humanising the stars of two-wheeled racing.
    While MotoGP remains hugely popular, WorldSBK has plateaued slightly in comparison. With Liberty now involved, there’s also potential to inject fresh ideas into the series, which could include exploring new classes or negotiating returns to once-iconic WorldSBK venues.

    Beyond storytelling, Liberty’s commercial muscle could bring major improvements to MotoGP’s global visibility and event presentation. The company’s resources might be directed toward elevating broadcast quality and upgrading venue infrastructure, something that could be warmly welcomed at iconic circuits like Australia’s own Phillip Island. Cross-promotional and sponsorship opportunities will also be huge, with the world’s premier four-wheel and two-wheel racing series now managed under one roof. This alignment opens the door to collaborative events, unified branding opportunities, and combined fan festivals.
    For both MotoGP™ and its sister series WorldSBK, this move signals major commercial potential and a stronger global outlook. All eyes are now on how Liberty Media will look to reshape and grow the paddock in the coming seasons.
    The post EU Clears Liberty Media’s MotoGP Takeover appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Administrators reveal full extent of financial exposure, including $2.1 million in customer deposits and $26.5 million in secured loans
    Peter Stevens Motorcycles, one of Australia’s largest and longest-standing motorcycle retailers, entered voluntary administration in May, with total debts reported to exceed $65 million. The development impacts approximately 400 employees and numerous customers across the company’s dealership network.
    Founded in Melbourne in 1970 by the Chiodo family, Peter Stevens had expanded to 15 locations across Victoria, South Australia, New South Wales, and Western Australia. The business includes both its own branded dealerships and franchise operations such as Ducati, Triumph and Harley-Heaven. At the time of its administration, Peter Stevens reported an annual turnover of around $250 million, with operations covering new and used motorcycle sales, parts and accessories, service, insurance, and finance.

    Documents lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) outline the full extent of the company’s financial position. According to a report by company director Luc Favre, the group owes a total of $65.9 million to its creditors. Employee entitlements are listed at $1.6 million, while customer deposits total over $2.13 million.
    The report also notes that the business owes the Australian Taxation Office approximately $4.5 million in deferred tax and $318,586 in GST. A further $4 million is owed to related companies, VC Motorcycles and Motorcycle Dealership Group.
    Westpac is identified as a secured creditor, with $7.6 million owed to the bank. An additional $26.5 million in retail floor plan financing – commonly used by motorcycle and automotive dealers to manage stock purchases – has been recorded as secured debt. Lease obligations account for another $15.1 million.
    Offsetting these liabilities, the company’s assets include approximately $42 million in inventory, $1.2 million in cash, and a $5.7 million deferred tax asset. The business is also owed around $1.4 million, including payments pending for motorcycles, spare parts, and other prepayments.
    At the first creditors meeting, administrators Craig Shepard, Michael Korda and Andrew Knight of KordaMentha advised it was still too early to determine whether unsecured creditors would receive any payments.
    “Craig mentioned that it was too early to provide a conclusive answer as the results depend on the sale of business outcome,” the meeting minutes lodged with ASIC stated.
    “Craig stated that by law, if a customer has paid a deposit, they become a creditor of the company. It was suggested that if the customer has paid by credit card, that they could request a chargeback to the card issuer.”
    Administrators confirmed the business continues to operate at all dealership locations for the time being. However, online trading has been paused while expressions of interest are sought for the whole business or select parts of it.
    “Craig noted expressions of interest were for a combination of all or parts of the business,” the minutes noted.
    Despite the circumstances, the administrators are continuing to meet employee entitlements incurred since entering administration. “Craig also noted that the shareholder had provided funding to ensure that post-appointment entitlements were paid,” the report indicated.

    The administrators have kept all dealership locations open while they assess the business and consider potential sales. Online trading has been paused. According to meeting minutes filed with ASIC, expressions of interest have already been received from multiple parties, some seeking the entire business, others interested in parts of it.
    Administrators also confirmed that the business continues to operate and that employee entitlements accrued following their appointment are being met. Funding has been provided by the shareholder to ensure the continuation of payments.
    While the company’s future is yet to be determined, work continues behind the scenes to preserve value and potentially maintain business continuity under new ownership.
    Peter Stevens has also announced discounts for new and used motorcycle stock on hand of up to 50% until June 25th 2025.
    The post Peter Stevens’ $65.9 Million Debt Uncovered appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT

    Savic Powers Ahead

    By RiderBOT, in Articles,

    First C-Series delivered and component factory space leased in China
    Australian electric motorcycle company Savic has delivered its first production units of the C-Series Alpha to customers in Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane.
    It has also leased a 1200sqm factory space in China’s Zhejiang province, near Shanghai, to produce the C-Series powertrain unit and speed up the assembly process. Savic says this powertrain has “unique scalability” and is “capable of serving a variety of future vehicles”.
    A distinctive double stacked headlamp comes standard, or the Alpha can be be optioned with a larger round ‘heritage’ unit This powertrain consists of the battery pack, electric motor and controller, along with its principal software and electronics systems.
    The C-Series Alpha, the first commercial vehicle produced in Melbourne since the closure of Ford, Holden and Toyota car plants eight years ago, has been designed in Australia. Final assembly is undertaken in Melbourne using both in-house-designed components and ones sourced from overseas.
    Pricing starts from $29,990 plus ORC but customers can opt for several upgrades, including colour schemes and a pillion seat.
    More than 100 orders have been placed and the company says interest is building since a nationwide series of test rides was undertaken earlier this year.
    The release follows a development cycle involving six prototypes, started back in 2016 (see central image above right) but slowed by the Covid pandemic.
    The first Savic prototype The final stage of pre-production included a complete in-house redesign of the suspension. Ex-racer and development adviser Jed Metcher and a team undertook the equivalent of 110,000km of testing at Melbourne’s Lang Lang proving ground and then completed laps of Phillip Island MotoGP circuit where the C-Series was run successfully at over 170km/h.
    Savic claims the C-Series is a leader in the electric performance sector, with 0-100km/h acceleration of 3.5sec, which nearly matches several big-name ICE sportsbikes.
    A claimed combined riding range (urban-country) of 200km-plus is helped by a specially designed regenerative braking system that helps put power back into the battery.
    The C-Series has an ABS braking system designed in conjunction with Bosch Australia and its Brembo brakes are superbike spec.
    A ‘twist-and-go’ motorcycle, the C-Series doesn’t have a clutch but a push-button-operated reverse gear helps with parking and manoeuvring.
    Speccing the Alpha with carbon fibre bodywork costs an extra $3000 The C-Series has full internet connectivity, providing for over-the-air electronic updates, bike security monitoring and keyless ignition via a smartphone.
    Four ride modes (Normal, Sport, Eco and Rain) are available, along with three customised modes to adjust torque delivery, re-gen braking and throttle sensitivity.
    The C-Series can be charged at public recharge points or via a household powerpoint. It comes with a 10amp charging cable.
    Savic will soon open showrooms in Melbourne and Perth and is working to establish a network of authorised service technicians.  
    Check out the latest issue of AMCN to read what TT legend Davo Johnson thinks of the new C-Series!
    The post Savic Powers Ahead appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    AJ
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    Your mate spends $100 on gear → You get $5 in credit to use on anything in the shop.
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    RiderBOT
    Veteran champion’s departure ignites a wide-open rider market as WorldSBK teams scramble to lock in 2026 lineups
    A major piece of the 2026 World Superbike puzzle has come loose: Álvaro Bautista has confirmed he will not continue with Ducati beyond the 2025 season. The 40-year-old Spaniard, a two-time WorldSBK champion with the Italian marque, will not see out his Ducati contract originally planned for 2026, with the second year of the deal officially scrapped.
    Although the veteran was eager to stay with the Bologna-based outfit for a fourth consecutive season, Ducati opted not to continue under the previously agreed terms.
    Despite leaving Ducati Bautista remains keen to race on in 2026 “I had signed with Ducati for 2025 and 2026,” Bautista told WorldSBK.com, “but with the possibility of breaking the contract from my side and also from their side. I communicated to the team that I wanted to continue… Then, Ducati said they don’t want to accept the conditions we signed, so they broke the agreement.”
    Despite nearing his 41st birthday, Bautista insists he still wants to race at the highest level. “I feel physically and mentally strong, and I still believe I can fight for good results,” he said. “So I’m free for 2026—let’s see what happens.”
    His exit sets up a fascinating reshuffle among the top factory teams, especially as several other high-profile moves are poised to reshape the grid. The remaining official Ducati slot is the most sort after ride on the grid, with the Panigale proving to be the strongest package on the grid this season, and the highly anticipated V4R set to debut next year.
    Bulega Extends Ducati Deal, Razgatlıoğlu Heads to MotoGP
    Ducati has already begun looking to the future with the renewal of Nicolo Bulega, who has established himself as a leading force in the championship this season. The 25-year-old has re-signed with Aruba.it Racing Ducati through the end of 2026, rejecting a lucrative approach from BMW in the process.
    Bulega leads the WorldSBK championship by 31 points, having taken 8 wins from 15 races (including Sprints) “Continuing this project fills me with satisfaction and pride,” Bulega said. “We’ve achieved important goals already, and I feel fully at home with this team.”
    Bulega’s renewed deal is significant not only because it locks him in as Ducati’s title challenger for 2026, but also because it includes an option to test Ducati’s upcoming MotoGP prototype. With technical changes looming for the 2027 season, Bulega may serve as Ducati’s bridge between WorldSBK and MotoGP, especially given his current trajectory and clear support from the factory.
    Razgatlioglu is off to test his mettle in MotoGP in 2026, but not before attempting to take his 3rd WorldSBK crown While Ducati strengthens its structure, BMW faces a monumental task after Toprak Razgatlıoğlu confirmed his long-awaited move to MotoGP, joining the factory-supported Prima Pramac Yamaha effort in 2026. That decision opens up BMW’s lead spot in WorldSBK—though few riders look fit to fill the void left by one of the series’ most electrifying stars.
    Rea’s Future Uncertain as Yamaha Struggles Continue
    Among those potentially in line to replace either Bautista or Razgatlıoğlu is Jonathan Rea. The six-time WorldSBK champion has made it clear he wants to return to top-level competitiveness but has been frustrated with Yamaha’s progress despite showing flashes of promise since returning from injury.
    Rea left the recent Misano test frustrated by the lack of pure pace compared to rivals “Even though we’re maximising our potential, we’re still far away. The gap to the front is too big,” Rea admitted following a productive but sobering Misano test.
    With 2026 looming and his current deal running out, Rea could be poised to make a big move either to Ducati to partner Bulega or as BMW’s new talisman in the post-Toprak era.
    A potential move by Rea could also have further domino effects in Yamaha’s rider lineup. Locatelli has signed for the factory Pata team, but GYTR Yamaha riders Remy Gardner and Dominique Aegerter could step up, although Yamaha is also expected to elevate current WorldSSP championship leader Stefano Manzi to a WorldSBK R1.
    Although Gardner has struggled to find consistency this season, he scored a podium finish at Assen and is outperforming his teammate Aegerter MotoGP Market Swirl Could Ripple Into WorldSBK Plans
    While WorldSBK undergoes its own reshuffle ahead of 2026, the increasingly fluid MotoGP rider market could further influence Superbike plans. Multiple premier class seats remain unsettled beyond 2025, and several current MotoGP riders may find themselves displaced—or choosing a different path altogether.
    Miller’s future remains uncertain with Razgatlioglu joining the Pramac Yamaha team Key names like Jack Miller, Franco Morbidelli, Johann Zarco, and Luca Marini each have contracts set to expire at the end of 2025, and other riders such as Miguel Oliveira have contracts with clauses that allow their deals to be terminated early. While most are expected to renew, others may explore alternative options that could include a high-profile switch to WorldSBK.
    The post Bautista ‘Free for 2026’ as Ducati Cuts Ties appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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