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    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
    Hey Riders! 👋
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    We’re pumped to introduce our Referral Program, designed to reward you for bringing more legends into the shed.
     
    Here’s how it works:
    🔗 Share your unique referral link with your mates
    🛒 When they sign up AND make a purchase from the store
    💰 You’ll receive 5% store credit based on what they spend – added directly to your account!
     
    Example:
    Your mate spends $100 on gear → You get $5 in credit to use on anything in the shop.
    No limits. No gimmicks. Just rewards for growing the crew.
     
    📍 Get your referral link here:
    https://ridershed.com.au/settings/referrals/
    Let your mates know – and let the rewards roll in.
    – The Rider Shed Team 🛠️
    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.
    RiderBOT
    Active aero winglets are old news. The future lies in fan-assisted cornering systems
    When it became clear that aerodynamic appendages were a valuable tool in MotoGP racing a few years ago, it opened a Pandora’s Box of increasingly extravagant bulges and spoilers intended to extract every ounce of available downforce both in straight lines and during cornering. Now BMW has filed a patent for a technology that shows the next step in achieving an aerodynamic benefit thanks to internal air ducts and a fan to blast air through strategically-placed jet nozzles.

    The idea of using thrusters to help control a bike was mooted back in 2018 when we reported that Bosch had demonstrated a prototype system that used gas generators – the same tech featured in airbags – paired to a rider-assist system to provide brief blasts of thrust, countering slides and preventing crashes. The Bosch system was an emergency design, though, requiring the gas charges to be replaced after each use, while BMW’s idea is to use a constant, adjustable flow of high-pressure air to assist the bike around corners.

    It’s not a new idea. Racing car designers have toyed with using fans to suck air out and create downforce for decades. Jim Hall’s Chaparral 2J exploited the idea back in 1970, using a separate two-stroke engine to power a pair of rear-mounted fans, extracting air from under the car. Then the Gordon Murray-designed Brabham BT46B brought the same concept to Formula 1 in 1978, winning the only race it entered before the idea was shelved in the name of safety and to prevent a costly ramping-up of R&D down that path. More recently, Murray explored the same idea with the 1990s McLaren F1 road car, and today a prominent rear fan is a feature on the T.50 supercar sold under his own Gordan Murray Automotive brand.

    Taking the idea to an even more extreme level, the electric McMurtry Spierling car creates two tonnes of downforce using a powered suction fan, setting a series of records including fastest-ever times at the Goodwood hillclimb course and the old Top Gear test track.
    BMW isn’t going to quite the same extreme with the system featured in its latest patent application, but still taps into the potential of using a ducted electric fan to blow air where it’s needed in pursuit of improved performance.
    The patent illustrations are simplified, but show that outlet nozzles could be positioned in multiple locations around the bike, while computer-controlled flaps inside the ducting system behind the bodywork choose where to direct the thrust.

    Under acceleration it can go rearward, adding a jet-style boost to acceleration. Under braking it can be reversed, helping to slow the bike, and during corners it can be directed outwards, pushing the bike towards the apex.
    We’ve seen a rash of active-aero patents from BMW recently, including adjustable winglets and a system intended to reroute exhaust gases to either side, depending on cornering angle, in pursuit of improved downforce and more grip.
    Whether any of them reach production has yet to be seen, but it’s clearly an area the company has a strong focus on at the moment.
    The post BMW’s Blow-Hard Thruster Tech appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Indian owners reveal 450cc twins will join international version of 1200cc V4 superbike
    It’s been more than five years now since Norton’s controversial era under the stewardship of Stuart Garner came to a dramatic conclusion – the brand falling into administration in January 2020 – and a more hopeful period began with Indian giant TVS acquiring key elements of the business in April the same year. Since then Norton has remained relatively quiet and concentrated on reengineering the 1200cc V4 platform to become the V4SV superbike and V4CR café racer while the ancient Commando 961 plodded on in the background. Now TVS’s managing director has shone light onto a more ambitious future for the company including a new focus on exports and a range of more affordable models that will be made – at least in part – in India.
    Norton India is due to launch before the end of this year, and between its bases in the UK and India the company intends to create a six-bike product range, kicking off with an international version of the V4 superbike, which is currently only approved to be sold and used in the UK under single-vehicle approval rules that are really aimed at backyard bike makers rather than ‘real’ manufacturers. To be sold, as Norton plans, in four additional European markets – France, Germany, Italy and Spain – as well as in India, the V4 needs to undergo and pass Euro5+ type-approval testing, and with that we can expect to see some substantial changes in the 2026 version that’s to be unveiled at EICMA this year.
    Speaking to Indian TV station CNBC-TV18, TVS’s managing director, Sudarshan Venu, said four of the six new models will be in the 2026 model range: “So this is where I think we are heading towards – by starting off with the launch of the four-cylinder superbike at EICMA and then we will also share the remaining three products at EICMA or soon after, which will be available in the market early 2026. They’re all in advanced stages of development. I think we have a good leadership team now at Norton with the two executive directors, Nevijo Mance and Richard Arnold. Supporting them are very good designers, engineers, and a lot of homegrown talent from TVS in India, which I think brings a great mix in terms of the Britishness and the uniqueness of Norton while leveraging the capabilities of TVS and also offering opportunities for our talent to grow.”
    He went on to say that manufacturing will take place in both the UK and India, with the flow of components and kit parts aided by a newly-established free trade agreement between the two nations. And in terms of numbers, Norton will grow substantially, with Venu confirming: “ We will start with a capacity of close to 10,000 vehicles and with the four models going up to six models. “
    Of those bikes, some are expected to be powered not by Norton’s existing engines but using a derivative of the new 450cc parallel twin developed by BMW for its upcoming F450 GS. TVS already partners with BMW to manufacture the 310cc single used in the G310 range and TVS’s own bikes, and went on to cooperate with the development and manufacturing of electric scooters. Venu said: “I think we did first the single cylinder, the 310 family. Then came the EV, and now is the two-cylinder family, which BMW has shown their version at last year’s EICMA. And you will see Norton and TVS versions using a similar platform in the coming months. So that is where I think the relationship is headed.”
    One or more 450cc models will give Norton the chance to compete against the likes of Triumph’s Street 400 and Scrambler 400X, which are both proving to be best-sellers for the UK’s leading motorcycle brand.
    The post TVS confirms Norton expansion and new models appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    As MV returns to independence after its short-lived period as KTM’s stablemate, the company readies all-new models
    Despite the financial problems that were dogging KTM and its parent Pierer Mobility last year the company went ahead and extended its shareholding in MV Agusta from 25.1% – held since 2022 – to a controlling 50.1% stake. That meant when KTM and two of its subsidiaries fell into self-administration in November, MV Agusta was rapidly back on the market and a deal was done in February this year to return Pierer’s 50.1% stake in MV to Art of Mobility – a company owned by MV’s former owners, the Sardarov family.
    MV Agusta’s Schiranna factory on Lake Varese
    While the sale has still to be fully completed, MV Agusta has put out a statement to confirm its health as a brand and give a glimpse into the future with the first clues to new models that will be unveiled before the end of 2025.
    Among the challenges are the need to establish a new logistics network, as KTM and MV have been sharing the same importers, spare parts supplies and component sourcing. MV says it’s now working to finalise a deal with a ‘global logistics partner’ to manage its spare parts supplies, and hopes to have the new system up and running by the end of the year. In the meantime, it continues to share KTM’s network. MV is also in the process of establishing independent regional offices in key markets to act as importers, as well as striking deals with other importers in smaller countries, and says that its global dealer network remains in place and will expand.
    When it comes to new bikes, MV says that a new motorcycle that ‘will represent a breakthrough in its segment’ is due to be revealed later this year, just before November’s EICMA show in Milan. The company says the bike uses “only 1% carry-over parts from the previous generation” – indicating that it’s a machine that replaces something in the existing lineup rather than an additional model. Whether it’s part of the firm’s three or four-cylinder ranges remains unanswered at the moment.
    Also confirmed is a completely new engine, which will be shown in prototype form at EICMA this year, suggesting it’s heading for production no sooner than 2027. Described as ‘redefining hyper-performance in the motorcycle world’ the engine’s existence hints that MV is preparing a new superbike to finally replace the F4, which ended production back in 2018 in the face of Euro5 emissions rules.
    The 921 S concept unveiled at EICMA
    On top of all this, MV wants to make its bikes more accessible to a larger number of customers, not necessarily through cheaper prices but via a wider array of buying and finance options.
    Luca Martin, MV’s Executive Director, said: “What we’re accomplishing at MV Agusta nowadays is truly special. Considering the challenges we’ve faced since the early days of KTM’s financial difficulties, the progress made in such a short time speaks volumes about the strength and dedication of our people. Across every area—operations, design, production, and many more areas —we’ve seen a remarkable response. From Schiranna to every part of our worldwide network, the team has embraced this new chapter with determination, passion, and a deep sense of responsibility. I’m proud of how far we’ve come—together—and even more motivated by the road ahead. MV Agusta is not only reaffirming its independence; it’s laying the foundation for a new era built on excellence and authenticity.”
    The post MV Agusta ready for the future without KTM appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
    RiderBOT
    Ultra-exclusive off-roader gets even more exotic spinoff
    Each year, KTM produces a limited run of 450 Rally Replica machines that are as close as possible to the brand’s Dakar rally bikes and carry huge price tags – and for 2026, there’s an even more exclusive version alongside the ‘standard’ model.
    The normal 2026 450 Rally Replica is, itself, a rare bike, with just 150 to be sold globally. It’s essentially the same as the 2025 version, which was limited to only 100 examples, with identical specs to its predecessor. That’s no surprise, as the 2025 bike represented a full redesign compared to the 2024 version, and its high-spec components – including WP XACT Pro 7548 48mm forks and XACT Pro 7750 shock, with vast 304mm front travel and 280mm rear – leave little scope for year-on-year improvement. It also boasts an incredible 34.5 litres of fuel capacity, split between no fewer than three fuel tanks: two at the front and one in the rear.

    What has changed for 2026 is the introduction of the 450 Rally Replica Sanders Edition – a replica-within-a-replica that’s limited to just five examples and marks Daniel Sanders’ victory at the 2025 Dakar Rally.
    The Sanders Edition gets the same Red Bull livery as the factory race bikes, along with a matching sticker kit, including a front number board sticker signed by Sanders. Each frame is numbered from 1 to 5, with a matching emblem, and the spec is uprated with a seat from Selle Della Valle, two sets of wheels – one with Michelin race tyres, the other with street rubber – plus different brake discs, an engraved fuel cap, a Hinson clutch cover, titanium footpegs, a signed Daniel Sanders race jersey, and an extra windscreen carrying the name and number of the bike’s new owner.
    Buyers, who will pay an as-yet-undisclosed sum, will also get a VIP pass for the 2025 KTM Europe Adventure Rally in Romania in late August, where they’ll get to ride alongside Sanders and receive support from the factory race truck and their own dedicated mechanic.
    The post 2026 KTM 450 Rally Replica appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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