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    RiderBOT
    Automated clutch could maximise off-the-line acceleration – could it be destined for WorldSBK?
    Automating the gear shifting process has been a distinct trend of 2025 as bikes from BMW, KTM and Yamaha have hit the market using semi-auto or fully-auto transmissions with computer-controlled actuators to replace rider’s clutch and shift lever inputs. Now Ducati is getting a slice of the action by developing its own automated clutch – but the company’s new patents show it’s still leaving the actual shifts to the riders.
    Ducati auto clutch cylinder
    Honda has, of course, already introduced the idea of an automatic clutch with a manual transmission in the form of the E-Clutch system on the latest CB650R and CBR650R, which is also spreading to smaller-capacity bikes like the Rebel 300 and CL300, offering a much cheaper and simpler route to partially-automated gear changing than the complex dual clutch transmission it’s championed for more than a decade. Ducati’s design is conceptually similar to the E-Clutch, retaining a conventional clutch lever to allow a manual override but adding a computer-controlled, electro-mechanical system that can do the same job. However, Ducati’s design is mechanically very different to the Honda version.
    The E-Clutch is used, so far, on bikes with cable-operated clutches, and uses a servo motor built into the clutch cover to engage or disengage the clutch, with the normal cable and lever as a backup. Ducati’s is designed with hydraulic clutch control in mind, and the company has filed patent applications showing two variations on the idea.
    Ducati auto clutch version 1
    In each, there’s an electro-mechanical actuator – essentially an electric motor spinning a threaded rod that’s inserted into a ball-screw assembly, pushing or pulling on an actuating rod that’s inserted into an extra clutch master cylinder. In the first version of the Ducati system, that master cylinder is, in turn, connected to the normal bar-mounted clutch master cylinder, so both the actuator and the conventional lever can independently push fluid through to the clutch slave cylinder to disengage the clutch.
    The second variation of the Ducati design uses the same electro-mechanical actuator and additional master cylinder, but eliminates the bar-mounted hydraulic system. In this iteration, there’s still a normal-looking clutch lever, but it simply sends instructions to the bike’s computer, telling it to engage or disengage the clutch using the auto-clutch system. The patent says that the gear shift is still conventional, with a foot-operated lever.
    Ducati auto clutch version 2
    The Ducati system could operate like Honda’s E-Clutch, automatically engaging and disengaging the clutch when starting or stopping, as well as during gear shifts, or it can work more like a rider-aid, relying on you to control the clutch lever but, for example, acting as an anti-stall system by overriding ill-considered clutch controls, and as a launch-control system by perfectly balancing throttle and clutch when you simply nail the twistgrip and release the clutch lever.
    Notably, regulations for WSBK would allow the automatic clutch to be used in competition, provided it’s fitted as standard to the homologated road bike that the racer is based on. A new Panigale R homologation-special street bike is expected to be launched later this year, so it will be intriguing to see if Ducati implements its semi-auto clutch on that model.
    The post Ducati developing auto clutch for sports bikes appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Triumph Motorcycles will next month release its Speed Triple 1200 RX, a high-spec limited-edition version of its flagship hypernaked motorcycle of which just 1200 will be sold worldwide.
    The Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RX is available to order from Australian Triumph dealerships now, before it arrives in June in ‘very limited numbers’, priced from $34,490 rideaway. This translates to a $3000 premium compared to the standard full-time Speed Triple RS.
    Unique to the RX is a more focussed riding position, with sportier ergonomics. The bike also features top-end Ohlins Smart EC3 semi-active suspension and an Ohlins SD EC steering damper.
    Also distinguishing the RX is an Akrapovic titanium exhaust system, new carbon-fibre bodywork and exclusive Triumph Performance Yellow graphics.
    The bike carries over the brand’s latest 1160cc triple-cylinder engine generating 134kW and 128Nm.
    2025 Triumph Speed Triple RX. 1 of 9   The post Limited-edition Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RX price revealed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Limited-edition shows the potential of a sportier Speed Triple
    With the launch of the 2025 Speed Triple 1200 RS, Triumph introduced its most powerful production bike yet (see full review on page 70)– and the new RX version capitalises on that with a sportier riding position and sharper style.

    To be made in strict limited-edition of 1200 examples, the Speed Triple 1200 RX doesn’t gain any additional performance, sticking to the same 183PS and 128Nm of the standard bike from its unchanged 1160cc three-cylinder, but it gets a more aggressive stance thanks to clip-ons instead of a one-piece bar and repositioned pegs that push the rider’s weight further over the front wheel.

    Those bars are 69mm lower and 52mm further forward than the stock Speed Triple, paired to pegs that are 14.5mm higher and 25.5mm further back. With the extra weight on the front and reduced leverage from the clip-ons, Triumph has upgraded the steering damper from a passive one to an electronic Ohlins SD EC, which ties into the same electronic control system used by the Ohlins Smart EC3 semi-active suspension that’s used on both the RX and the stock Speed Triple RS.

    Visually, the RX’s main change is the addition of carbon fibre elements – the front mudguard and infill panels next to the fuel tank – and the yellow and black paint scheme, which includes an unusual yellow flash across the rear wheel rim. A carbon and titanium Akrapovic end can and a new aluminium top yoke complete the changes.

    Weighing in at the same 199kg wet as the stock Speed Triple, the straight-line performance isn’t going to be any different, but the revised riding position promises improved handling.

    While the RX is a limited-edition machine, it doesn’t carry the sort of ridiculous price tag that some rival brands might choose to adopt in the name of exclusivity. At $34,490 AUD it’s $3000 more than the standard RS version, and with only 1200 examples for the whole world, the few that come to Australia are likely to be snapped up pretty quickly.

    Will the RX’s design changes be used to inform a future Speed Triple variant, perhaps a faired version to replace the previous generation Speed Triple 1200 RR? We’ll have to wait and see.

    The post Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RX revealed appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    A new Harley-Davidson one-make championship series has been announced with plans to compete at six MotoGP weekends throughout the 2026 calendar.
    The twelve-race series (two races per round) will take place at six Grands Prix across Europe and North America, with riders exclusively piloting race-prepared Harley-Davidson Road Glide motorcycles.

    Harley-Davidson Factory Racing has developed the race bike, which weighs approximately 280 kilograms and produces over 200 horsepower (149kW) and 245 Nm, capable of reaching speeds over 300 kilometers per hour. Every bike will be identical in an effort to ensure close competition. The grid is expected to comprise six to eight teams, each fielding two riders –supported by Harley-Davidson Factory Racing.
    “This is a bold new step for Harley-Davidson’s global racing ambitions,” explains Harley-Davidson boss Jochen Zeitz.

    “Harley-Davidson has been pioneering performance on and off the road since our beginnings over 120 years ago. Most recently, we’ve showcased performance through our racing at the MotoAmerica Mission King of the Baggers series and through performance differentiated product such as our new CVO RR motorcycle and our CVO Road Glide ST. We’ve seen how performance has resonated with riders and fans, and we know that they’re keen for more.
    “With this new series, we’re excited to bring a new form of racing to the world stage. Not only is this a bold and new chapter for our brand, celebrating our heritage while pushing into the future, but it will add an amazing spectacle to the greatest motorcycle show in the world.

    At a media event in Le Mans, France, MotoGP CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said that this move will help Harley-Davidson push into new, global markets.
    “This collaboration with Harley-Davidson is an exciting opportunity for both parties,” said Mr Ezpeleta.
    “We offer a truly international platform for Harley-Davidson to expand their global reach, and Harley-Davidson is perfectly placed to join us in bringing our sport to new audiences as we team up with one of the most iconic lifestyle brands in the US.
    “This partnership has big potential for both our strategies and will deliver a real spectacle for fans, bringing a completely new flavour to the Grand Prix weekends where the series will compete.”
    The post Harley-Davidson and MotoGP announce bagger racing series for 2026 appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    BMW Motorrad has revealed its new R 1300 RS sports tourer and R 1300 RT luxury tourer models, which are set to hit Australian showrooms in the third quarter of this year.
    The BMW R 1300 RS will be available in four full-time variants, with entry to the range set at $23,090 rideaway. The base version will be joined by the Performance ($29,890), Triple Black ($30,890) and Option 719 ($34,190).
    Meanwhile, the more comfort-focused R 1300 RT will check in from $39,990, joined by the Triple Black ($40,690), Impulse ($40,940) and Option 719 ($44,990).
    Both models are powered by BMW’s 1300cc two-cylinder boxer engine, tuned to produce 107kW (145hp) and 149Nm.
    New to the platform, compared to the preceding R 1250 range, is a revised full LED design with, the automated shift assistant (ASA) as an option, new wheels which are 1.4kg lighter than before, as well as more advanced rider modes as standard.
    BMW R 1300 RS and R 1300 RT. 1 of 12   The post 2025 BMW R 1300 RS, R 1300 RT pricing confirmed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    BMW Motorrad revealed an all-new boxer-powered roadster overnight, dubbed R 1300 R, which is set to launch in Australia in the third quarter of this year, priced from $22,200 rideaway.
    The BMW R 1300 R is motivated by the brand’s 1300cc boxer engine, which in this case is tuned to produce 107kW (145hp) and 149Nm. According to BMW, this is the most powerful production BMW boxer engine to date.
      1 of 4         Also unique to this naked roadster is its steel and aluminium chassis which hosts upside-down forks and paralever rear suspension. BMW claims that this suspension is too a world-first, as the only production motorcycle with a telescopic fork with an adjustable spring rate.
    “Focused uncompromisingly on riding dynamics, it delivers a far sportier experience
    than its predecessor thanks to a completely redesigned engine and chassis while still
    retaining core BMW values such as touring capability and comfort,” said BMW Motorrad head of development Christof Lischka.

    The R 1300 R is fitted with an advanced rider aid suite, offering three rider modes as standard as well as the brand’s Engine Drag Torque Control system. The bike can also be optioned with Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), the automatic transmission system previously seen on the R 1300 GS Adventure.
    The bike will launch in four variants, with the base R 1300 R in Snapper Rocks Blue coming in at $22,200, joined by the higher-spec Exclusive ($28,490), Performance ($28,240) and range-topping Option 719 ($30,890).
      1 of 5 The post 2025 BMW R 1300 R price and specs confirmed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Ducati has revealed its new Panigale V4 Lamborghini – a collector’s edition model inspired by the Italian carmaker’s Revuelto supercar – distinguished by a unique colour scheme, dedicated forged wheels and carbon-fibre extras.
    Just 630 units will be offered to the public, with another 63 units reserved for Lamborghini customers who will be able to configure the bike with the same colors as their car.
    The Ducati Panigale V4 Lamborghini builds on the standard Panigale V4 S, but gains forged aluminium wheels, a new tail piece and wings in carbon-fibre, and a new seat in the same style as the interior of the Lamborghini Revuelto.

    The bike is also equipped with an Akrapovic titanium silencer which ups power to the platform’s maximum 163kW, and drops weight to 185kg. This makes the V4 Lamborghini the lightest of the family.
    The specifications of the Panigale V4 Lamborghini are rounded off by the dry clutch and adjustable footrests, brake and clutch levers, and counterweights made from billet aluminum. Those wanting to use their motorcycle on the track will have a racing tank cap in billet aluminum, brake caliper conveyors, carbon fiber open clutch cover, and a license plate holder removal kit, all included with the bike.

    The bike is further enhanced by the plate on the engine bearing its name (Desmosedici Stradale); the triple clamp machined from billet aluminum; and the dedicated dashboard animation at key-on, including the name of the motorbike and the example number. The same number is also laser-etched onto the aluminum badge of the ignition key.
    Each Panigale V4 Lamborghini is supplied with a certificate of authenticity and dedicated motorbike cover delivered in a special personalized box matching the livery. Moreover, every Panigale V4 Lamborghini will be delivered in an exclusive customized wooden crate, complete with dedicated rear stand once again matching the bike’s livery.
      1 of 6 The post Ducati Panigale V4 Lamborghini revealed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Ducati has confirmed that it will release its new XDiavel V4 to Australian showrooms in August, priced from $46,500 rideaway.
    The Ducati XDiavel V4, which effectively replaces the outgoing XDiavel 1260, looks to redefine the segment with a focus on performance from its new V4 Granturismo engine and sophisticated electronics suite.
    This 1158cc powerplant, which is used in a number of models in Ducati’s line-up including the Multistrada V4 adventure bike, generates 125kW and 125Nm. For comparison, the 1262cc Testastretta L-twin powering the XDiavel 1260 generates 119kW and 127Nm.

    This move to the V4 platform promises to combine familiar muscular cruiser ergonomics with strong performance, with the Italian bikemaker dubbing the model a ‘Sport Cruiser’.
    The Ducati XDiavel V4 features a low and relaxed riding position with an enormous 240/45 rear tyre, which helps the 229kg bike spring from zero-to-100km/h in “less than three seconds”.
    Despite its commanding size, the XDiavel V4 should offer thrilling handling dynamics for the cruiser category, and is backed up by high-end fully adjustable suspension and Brembo Stylema calipers grabbing twin 330mm discs on the front end.

    According to Ducati, comfort is substantially improve thanks to the rear suspension with 25mm more travel compared to the XDiavel 1260 and, a thicker and wider saddle.
    On the tech front, the XDiavel V4 boasts a six-axis IMU for lean-angle sensitive traction control and cornering ABS, as well as a quickshifter, launch control and a 6.9-inch TFT dash.
    The 2025 Ducati XDiavel V4 will be available from August in two colours, Burning Red and Black Lava.
    The post 2025 Ducati XDiavel V4 price and specs confirmed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
    RiderBOT
    Ducati has opened the order books for its new Desmo450 MX motocross bike ahead of its local launch in September, despite the fact that the bike has yet to be fully revealed in production trim. 
    The 2025 Ducati Desmo450 MX is priced from $16,300 in Australia, placing it towards the premium end of the category among its key competitor in the Triumph 450-RC that is set to launch this month from $16,995.

    Ducati has been developing its 450-class motocross model in premier-class competition since the start of 2014, giving the public its closest glimpse at the incoming model.
    As its name suggests, the Ducati Desmo450 MX is unique in that it will be the only in its class to feature a desmodromic valve control system.
    The Ducati Factory MX Team has also been competing with a 250-class motocross model which is expected to follow its 450 sibling to local showrooms in due course.

    The post Ducati reveals pricing for long-awaited motocross model appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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