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The Red Bull Ducati Factory MXGP Team has launched ahead of the opening round of the 2026 FIM Motocross World Championship in Bariloche, Argentina, this weekend, marking the start of a significant new chapter for Ducati’s off-road program. Jeremy Seewer, Andrea Bonacorsi and Calvin Vlaanderen will each race the Ducati Desmo450 MX as the Bologna manufacturer enters its second full MXGP season. Red Bull has come on board as title partner of the factory operation, which is based in Bergeijk, The Netherlands, and led by Team Principal Louis Vosters, who is a figure with more than 35 years of experience at the top level of motocross. Swiss veteran Seewer brings the most MXGP pedigree of the trio, having finished as championship runner-up in 2019, 2020 and 2022, and claimed eight overall GP wins across his career. He rides the Desmo450 MX for a second consecutive year. Vlaanderen, who was born in South Africa and races under the Dutch flag, finished sixth overall in the 2025 MXGP standings and has two GP race wins to his name. Italian Andrea Bonacorsi, 22, rounds out the lineup after finishing eighth overall last season and is still searching for his maiden MXGP race win. Paolo Ciabatti, general manager of Ducati Corse Off-Road, said the team had spent the winter working with engineers in Bologna and Vosters’ crew to improve every aspect of the Desmo450 MX, with the stated goal of fighting for wins in 2026. The opening gate drop in Bariloche this weekend will be the first real measure of how that development work has translated to race pace. 1 of 7 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. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS. The post Red Bull on board as Ducati factory MXGP team chases first win in 2026 appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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BSA Motorcycles is returning to Australia, with Perth-based Leisk Moto Imports appointed as the official importer and distributor for the market. The British heritage brand revived by owner Classic Legend will officially launch in Australia in mid-2026, bringing three models initially available: the Gold Star 650, Scrambler 650, and Bantam 350, with the adventure-oriented Thunderbolt also due for release this year following its EICMA 2025 debut. BSA’s Australian history stretches back more than a century, with the brand particularly remembered for the Bantam Bushman of the 1960s. The revived lineup draws on that heritage while meeting modern standards. All models are LAMS approved. The Gold Star 650 is a 652cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder modern-retro roadster, first launched globally in 2022. The Scrambler 650, revealed in 2024, is built for both city and off-road use and features Brembo brakes, dual-channel ABS, and Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres. The Bantam 350, which arrived in the UK last year, carries classic styling cues including a round headlight, teardrop tank, curved rear fender. The Thunderbolt, BSA’s first adventure bike, adds rally-style aesthetics, traction control, and three ABS modes. Leisk Moto Imports is led by Managing Director Jeff Leisk, a former professional racer and ex-Managing Director of KTM Australia, where he spent more than 20 years overseeing distribution, dealer development, and racing programs. LMI’s immediate focus will be building a national dealer network ahead of the mid-2026 launch. Riders can register their interest via the BSA Motorcycles website. Thunderbolt. 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. By night, Spencer plays guitar with Melbourne punk outfit LOUTS. The post BSA Motorcycles confirms Australian return with Leisk Moto Imports as official distributor appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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Dealer network and three models on sale by the middle of this year AFTER A five-decade absence, heritage brand BSA is coming back to the Australian market. A 25-strong dealer network will be set up and all three BSAs currently sold globally – the Gold Star 650, the Scrambler 650 and the Bantam 350 – will be available to Australian buyers from mid this year. The Bantam 350, released late last year, will underpin BSA sales in Oz with a competitive price of $7590 ride away. It exactly matches the rideaway price of Royal Enfield’s Hunter 350 and undercuts Honda’s GB350 ($6999 plus ORC) and Triumph’s Speed 400 ($9300 rideaway). In the first two months of its UK release, the Bantam 350 topped the modern classic sales chart, knocking the Speed 400 off the top spot. BSA’s base model, it’s powered by a 334cc liquid-cooled DOHC single producing 22kW (29hp) at 7750rpm and 29.62Nm at 6000rpm, with a six-speed gearbox. The Honda and Royal Enfield run a five-speed gearbox. Compared to its rivals, the BSA engine is a quick-revving short-stroke and produces slightly more power. It runs cast wheels (18in front, 17in rear) and has a conventional non-adjustable front fork and twin rear shocks with five-step adjustment. There is LED lighting front and rear but no electronic rider aids other than ABS and no USB connectivity. AMCN tested the Bantam 350 last September in Vol 75 No.04 where we praised its performance and price but criticised some missing rider tech. The Gold Star 650 will cost $12,249 ride away, and the Scrambler 650 $11,799 ride away. BSA’s Australian importer has already hinted at what could come next, including the Thunderbolt adventure prototype revealed last year. BSA models were last sold in Australia in the early 1970s. BSA sold a huge range of models here, including to police forces. There was even a Bantam model produced for Aussie farmers called the Bushman. The post BSA returns to Australia appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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A world enduro trailblazer and a late road racing favourite were celebrated at the F1 Australian Grand Prix, as the Hall of Fame added five new names and a championship-winning machine The late road racing star Ken Blake and world enduro champion Shane Watts were inducted into the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame in a ceremony at the 2026 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix on Thursday, March 5. Watts’ enduro CV is outstanding and includes being the first Australian to win a world enduro title in 1997 and then blazing to class and outright honours in the 1998 International Six Days Enduro in Traralgon—near his hometown of Maffra—on a KTM 125cc two-stroke. He then made a name for himself in the ultra-competitive American arena, riding a variety of models to prove his mettle. Shane Watts When asked how he managed to build such an incredible career, Watts said he “did it the hard way”. “The journey from being a simple kid from out Maffra to getting across the world and end up winning a world championship was one I look back on with pride. “It was about the good ol’ Aussie spirit and saying I’m not going to stop. A lot of resolve, a lot of tenacity – quite the journey really. I’m very humbled and proud to be up on this stage. “Racing had its ups and downs, like the usual flow of life, and although I had lots of injuries it was about getting back on the bike and keep charging forward and moving onto the next battle. “Today is a huge achievement, and I’m I’m lucky enough that I’ve got my parents and one of my children here today, which is extra special. Being inducted into the Motorsport Hall of Fame is magnificent, but to have your parents proud of you and being able to inspire your children is equally as special.” And his advice for the next generation of enduro racers? “It’s an old cliché, but everyone says go out and have fun. It’s really what you need to do: savour the moment.” Blake’s place in Australian road racing history was sealed by giant-killing performances, highlighted by his famous victory over world champion Giacomo Agostini in the Australian 500 TT at Laverton Airbase, Victoria, in February 1976. Ken Blake Also inducted were record-breaking seven-time Supercars champion Jamie Whincup, who became eligible after stepping down from active competition and remains principal of Triple Eight Race Engineering; leading official and entrepreneur Garry Connelly AM, who was crucial to the formation of Rally Australia and has served as Australia’s highest ranking international official for 20 years, including roles on the FIA World Motorsport Council and as chair of F1 stewards; and Top Fuel drag racing team owner Santo Rapisarda, a winner of more than 12 national titles. Sir Jack Brabham’s Formula 1 world championship-winning Repco Brabham BT19 also entered the Hall of Fame as the first racing car to be honoured, becoming the 100th inductee to mark the centenary of Brabham’s birth. Jamie Whincup The Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame is the highest honour in Australian motorsport. It is an exclusive honour-roll made up of less than one inductee for each of the 125 years motorsport has occurred in Australia. The post Watts and Blake Honoured in Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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83kW parallel-twin flagship adventure model due on Australian shores in May, with two specifications available CFMOTO will add the MY26 1000MT‑X to its Australian line-up in late May 2026, following the model’s global unveiling at EICMA 2025. The 1000MT‑X is a large-capacity adventure-touring motorcycle built around a 946.2cc DOHC parallel-twin engine and a chassis package that includes long-travel suspension, wire-spoke wheels and IMU-controlled electronics. Australian pricing is listed at $18,990 ride away. The engine is a 946.2cc twin-cylinder unit based on the LC8c platform, used here in an adventure application. CFMOTO claims 83kW (111hp) at 8500rpm and 105Nm at 6250rpm, with tuning intended to keep a broad midrange; the company states more than 90 per cent of peak torque is available between 5500 and 8000rpm. Drive is through a six-speed transmission with a slipper clutch. The motor uses an all-alloy case and is claimed to weigh 56kg. Component details listed for the engine include NTN bearings and an FCC-manufactured clutch assembly. Internal features cited by CFMOTO include ceramic-coated cylinder bores, forged pistons and fracture-split connecting rods. The platform has undergone more than 100,000km of endurance testing, according to the manufacturer. Suspension is by KYB, with a 48mm upside-down fork and a monoshock, both fully adjustable. Travel is listed at 230mm front and 230mm rear on the standard model. A low-suspension LS variant is also planned, with 190mm travel front and rear. Wheels are 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke rims fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres in 90/90 R21 and 150/70 R18 sizes. Braking hardware is supplied by Brembo, with dual 320mm front discs and a 260mm rear disc. Electronics include a Bosch six-axis IMU supporting cornering ABS and traction control, along with five ride modes. For touring and day-to-day use, the 1000MT‑X is listed with a 22.5-litre fuel tank and a claimed range of more than 500km under mixed riding. Equipment includes an 8-inch full-colour TFT touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, a heated seat, cruise control and an adjustable windscreen. Standard protection items listed include a skid plate, handguards and a chain guard. The bike’s curb weight is stated as 222kg. Two variants and a limited colour range have been outlined for Australia. The standard model will be offered in Tactical Green or Aerolite Grey, while the LS variant will be available in Aerolite Grey. Seat height is listed at 870mm for the standard model and 830mm for the LS. CFMOTO will also offer an introductory choice of two accessory bundles for early purchasers, available until 30 June 2026. One bundle focuses on touring additions, comprising a tall windscreen, an alloy luggage kit, a top case backrest and a side case bracket. The second bundle lists off-road and protection items: a dual-stage foam air filter, upper crash bars, an alloy skid plate, a headlight guard, wrap-around handguards, billet rally pegs and a shortened billet clutch lever. SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type: inline twin-cylinder, DOHC Capacity: 946.2cc Bore x stroke: 92.5mm x 70.4mm Compression ratio: 13.5:1 Fuel system: Bosch EFI Max power: 83kW @ 8,500rpm Max torque: 105Nm @ 6,250rpm Transmission: six-speed, slipper clutch CHASSIS & SUSPENSION Front suspension: KYB 48mm USD fork, fully adjustable Rear suspension: KYB monoshock, fully adjustable BRAKES & ELECTRONICS Front brakes: Brembo, dual 320mm discs, radial calipers Rear brake: Brembo, single 260mm disc, twin-piston caliper ABS: Bosch dual-channel WHEELS & TYRES Front tyre: 90/90 R21 Rear tyre: 150/70 R18 DIMENSIONS Length x width x height: 2288mm x 945mm x 1476mm (LS: 1426mm) Wheelbase: 1525mm Seat height: 870mm (LS: 830mm) WEIGHTS & CAPACITIES Fuel capacity: 22.5L Curb weight: 222kg OTHER Colours: Aerolite Grey, Tactical Green Price (ride away): $18,990 The post CFMOTO 1000MT‑X Australian pricing confirmed appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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CFMOTO Australia has confirmed the 2026 1000MT-X will arrive in late May 2026, marking the brand’s first genuine entry into the large-capacity adventure motorcycle segment at $18,990 rideaway. First shown at EICMA 2025, the 1000MT-X is built around a 946cc parallel-twin producing 83kW and 105Nm. CFMOTO says the engine is tuned for real-world adventure use, with over 90 per cent of peak torque available between 5500 and 8000rpm. Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable KYB 48mm USD forks with 230mm of travel, paired to a fully adjustable KYB rear monoshock with remote preload adjustment. A low-suspension variant, the 1000MT-X LS, reduces travel to 190mm at both ends and drops seat height from 870mm to 830mm. Both models roll on 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wire-spoke rims wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres. Braking is handled by Brembo, with dual 320mm floating front discs and four-piston radial calipers, backed by a Bosch six-axis IMU that enables cornering ABS and three-stage traction control. The IMU also supports five ride modes: Standard, Off Road, Rain, All Terrain, and a customisable Master mode. Wheelie control, cruise control, an up/down quickshifter, and a power-assisted slipper clutch are all standard. The 1000MT-X carries a 22.5-litre fuel tank, which CFMOTO says delivers more than 500km of range under mixed riding conditions. An 8.0-inch vertical TFT touchscreen handles navigation and vehicle data, with Type-A and Type-C USB-C charging, Bluetooth connectivity via the CFMOTO RIDE app, heated grips, and a heated seat also included. An adjustable windscreen, LED lighting, and tyre pressure monitoring system round out the feature set. Skid plate, handguards, and chain guard come fitted as standard. To mark the launch, CFMOTO is offering buyers a choice of two introductory accessory packs, available until 30 June 2026. The Adventure Pack, valued at $1989, includes a tall windshield, alloy luggage kit, top case backrest, and side case bracket. The Rally Pack, valued at $1859, comprises a dual-stage foam air filter, upper crash bars, alloy skid plate, headlight guard, wrap-around handguards, billet rally pegs, and a shortened billet clutch lever. The standard 1000MT-X is available in Tactical Green or Aerolite Grey. The LS variant is offered in Aerolite Grey only. 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 Aprilia Tuareg 660, 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 2026 CFMOTO 1000MT-X price and specs confirmed appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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Triumph Motorcycles has unveiled the two limited edition Street Triple 765 Moto2 Edition motorcycles that will serve as prizes in this year’s Triumph Triple Trophy competition, alongside announcing plans to test 100% per cent non-fossil fuels in Moto2 engines ahead of a regulatory requirement coming into force in 2027. The announcement was made at the opening round of the Moto2 World Championship at Chang International Circuit in Buriram, Thailand. Two winners will each receive a Street Triple 765 Moto2 Edition, with one going to the Moto2 rider who accumulates the most fan votes across the season, the other awarded through a free prize draw open to fans worldwide. Both bikes feature a billet-machined top yoke with individual numbering and personalised engraving, with the rider’s prize carrying the number 001 and the fan prize carrying 765 as a nod to Triumph’s 765cc triple engine. The Street Triple 765 Moto2 Edition is produced in a worldwide run of 1000 units and includes carbon fibre side panels, front mudguard, belly pan and silencer end cap, a Moto2-embossed seat with dimpled grip pattern, clear-lens rear light, and a laser-etched Moto2 logo on the silencer. The colour scheme pairs Mineral Grey and Crystal White with a Triumph Performance Yellow rear subframe and matching rear wheel stripe. A TFT display features a Moto2-branded start-up screen. On the sustainable fuels front, Triumph chief product officer Steve Sargent confirmed the brand will use samples of 100 per cent non-fossil fuels for performance and durability testing during the 2026 season. The announcement follows successful durability testing of a 40 per cent non-fossil fuel blend last year, with the majority of engine mapping and optimisation work now completed. The Moto2 regulations will require 100 per cent non-fossil fuels from the 2027 season. “Alongside improving performance, we are also committed to supporting the development of a sustainable future for motorcycling and motorcycle sport,” Sargent said. The Triumph Triple Trophy has run alongside the Moto2 World Championship since 2020. Each Grand Prix weekend, a judging panel shortlists three riders for standout on-track performances, with fans then voting via the official MotoGP Instagram channel. Points are awarded on a 7-6-5 basis corresponding to the 765cc engine displacement. Past winners include Marco Bezzecchi (2020), Raul Fernandez (2021), Jeremy Alcoba (2022), Pedro Acosta (2023), Ai Ogura (2024) and Diogo Moreira (2025), who also claimed the Moto2 World Championship last season. The 2026 competition opened on Sunday 1 March following the season opener in Thailand. Fans can vote for their favourite rider and enter the free prize draw via the Triumph Motorcycles website. 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 Aprilia Tuareg 660, 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 reveals 2026 Triple Trophy prize bikes and sustainable fuel testing program appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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Suzuki Motorcycles Australia has opened online pre-orders for the 40th Anniversary GSX-R1000R, with the limited-edition superbike priced at $30,990 rideaway. The bike can be reserved through Suzuki’s online Build and Order platform at suzukimotorcycles.com.au, where buyers nominate their preferred dealer and secure priority allocation with a minimum $1000 deposit. 1 of 3 Australian-delivered examples will come fitted as standard with aerodynamic carbon winglets and a colour-matched seat cowl. Three heritage-inspired colour schemes are available, each referencing the GSX-R’s 40-year competition history. To mark the milestone, the first 40 confirmed pre-order customers will receive an exclusive Collectors Garage Pack, comprising a 40th Anniversary garage mat, a custom indoor bike cover, and a bike stand with bobbins. The pack will be delivered alongside the motorcycle. Dealer allocations will be determined by the original register of interest submission date, with the earliest registrants given priority for the initial shipment. Pre-orders are now open to all customers regardless of whether they previously registered. The first shipment is scheduled to arrive in August 2026. Suzuki has confirmed the first 40 pre-sale units must be secured through its online ordering system to guarantee allocation and receive the Collectors Garage Pack. 1 of 8 Spencer LeechSpencer has a keen eye for hard news, and does some of his best living on deadline day. He loves more than anything to travel on his Aprilia Tuareg 660, 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 opens pre-orders for 40th Anniversary GSX-R1000R, priced at $30,990 rideaway appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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Patent shows vast, four-tank version in pursuit of usable range KAWASAKI’S PROTOTYPE for a supercharged, hydrogen-fuelled motorcycle based around the engine from the H2 has already been publicly demonstrated more than once and grabs attention with the vast, rear-mounted tanks needed to store its fuel. But with range remaining a stumbling block for hydrogen combustion engines Kawasaki has filed a patent that aims to solve the problem by adding two more enormous tanks on the front of the prototype. Hydrogen, in theory, has some significant advantages over petrol as a fuel for internal combustion engines. As well as the fact that its main exhaust emission is simply water vapour rather than CO2, hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and has close to three times the energy density of gasoline by weight – so 1kg of hydrogen has potential to go three times as far as 1kg of petrol. But that’s where the fly gets stuck in the ointment. Hydrogen is the least dense element, so 1kg of it at normal atmospheric pressure would require a fuel tank of around 11,000 litres capacity. To replicate a typical motorcycle’s 14 litres of petrol, which weighs around 10kg, you’d need 110,000 litres of hydrogen… So it needs to be compressed to around 700-bar into scuba-style tanks. But even then hydrogen still takes up a lot of space, with 10 litres of compressed hydrogen at that pressure equating to around 1.4 litres of petrol, so you’d still need 100 litres to get the same amount of range as a typical bike’s tank. That’s why, despite two huge hydrogen cylinders taking up the space that would normally be used by a passenger and luggage, Kawasaki’s hydrogen prototype still has a very short range. And it’s why the company’s new patent shows a bike with twice as much fuel capacity thanks to another two tanks strapped to the fairing sides ahead of the rider. Here, the tanks make the bike even wider than the existing prototype, as they have to go outside the four-cylinder, 999cc engine and front fork, and they extend beyond the front of the fairing to allow enough space for the rider’s knees. Since the tanks have to be cylindrical to withstand the pressure within, there’s no scope to sculpt them around the existing bike’s components and make it more compact. What’s more, they need to be protected by strong frames, adding more size and weight, because a split hydrogen tank in an accident is a recipe for a fireball. With all this in mind, the question arises as to what Kawasaki’s endgame is for the hydrogen bike project. It’s unimaginable that a machine like this could reach production, and even if it did the lack of hydrogen filling station infrastructure would make it monumentally impractical. However, Kawasaki Heavy Industries is a strong proponent of the idea of the ‘hydrogen society’ – a concept that envisions hydrogen as the dominant fuel type, and one that’s also supported by the likes of Toyota. KHI is involved in creating a hydrogen supply chain, including production (largely from Australia), storage and transport, building vast ships to carry liquified hydrogen around the world. In that light, the bike project makes sense as a demonstrator rather than a production possibility. ben purvis The post Kawasaki Hydrogen Bike Gets Bulkier Still appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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Founder Andy White says production will cease in late June, as he pivots to “Travels with Andy” expeditions After three decades producing high-quality motorcycle travel gear in Australia, Andy Strapz is shutting up shop. Founder and director Andy White has announced that manufacturing across all Andy Strapz product lines will “cease in a step wise fashion as existing raw materials are exhausted,” with the wind-down occurring over the next three months and shutdown set to land around late June. “We’ve come to a natural turning point. It’s time to close this chapter and turn the page,” White said. For riders, it’s effectively the last call for Australian-made Andy Strapz equipment. The company says current stock still covers the range, but advises customers to get their orders in early. Other retailers’ remaining stock will be sold out as the closure progresses. Built by riders, made for travel Since 1997, Andy Strapz has built its name on practical, ride-tested solutions for people who actually travel by bike—gear designed to be tough, simple to use, and reliable in the real world. White’s decades on motorcycles shaped a range focused on function over fuss, backed by an Australian workshop team and a strong emphasis on materials and quality control. While the brand is best known in motorcycling, its in-house making capability has also been applied across other areas like 4WD and outdoors pursuits. Final production schedule Andy Strapz will stop making products in stages through to mid-June, with lines dropping off at the end of March, end of April, end of May, and again around mid-June. In broad terms, smaller luggage and accessory items are scheduled to end first, followed by additional bag lines and riding basics, with bigger-ticket pannier-related gear and strap systems among the last items to cease. The company stresses these are planned final production dates—not guaranteed sell-out dates—warning some items may disappear earlier, and that changes are possible due to materials, labour or demand constraints. “To be sure you don’t miss out – get in early!” What’s next White is transitioning to focus exclusively on ‘Travels with Andy’, offering “curated, long-format motorcycle expeditions through India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.” These journeys will run in partnership with in-country operator Karma Yatri. For the closure timeline, remaining stock, or travel info, head to andystrapz.com. The post End of an era: Andy Strapz Announces Closure appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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One-off custom honors the brand’s 1976 Superbike breakthrough as Nate Kern joins the Super Hooligan action with BMW for the Daytona 200 BMW Motorrad will use the 84th Daytona 200 weekend, running March 5–7, 2026, to debut a one-off custom: the BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan. The build is intended as a rolling tribute to BMW’s landmark moment at Daytona—Steve McLaughlin’s win in the first-ever Superbike race at the venue on March 6, 1976—and to Reg Pridmore’s title in the inaugural AMA Superbike Championship. Both riders campaigned Butler & Smith–backed BMW R 90 S machines, helping cement the brand’s American racing legacy. BMW says its brand ambassador Nate Kern will also take part in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan series presented by Roland Sands during the MotoAmerica Daytona 200 event, riding the R 1300 R Superhooligan. A modern roadster built to echo a Daytona-era racer The project comes from a small team inside the BMW Motorrad Custom Speed Shop, led by project manager Philipp Ludwig with Katrin Torge, designer Andreas Martin, color and graphics designer Theresa Stukenbrock, and prototype builders Paul Summerer and Thomas Becker. Starting with the 145 hp (107 kW) BMW R 1300 R, the team reworked the platform into what BMW describes as a “naked superbike” silhouette—leaning into visual cues associated with stripped-back superbikes of the mid-1970s, including prominent number plates and wide handlebars. The most direct nod to McLaughlin’s Daytona victory is the bike’s racing number, 83, and paint details that reference period BMW R 90 S colors, applied to elements such as the front fender and tank side panels. Additional blue accents—matching the hue used on BMW M 1000 RR brake calipers—appear on the aluminum rear frame and fork components, extending to the rear shock spring. Carbon, suspension and speed-focused hardware BMW positions the custom as a high-performance “Custom Roadster” aimed at a superbike-like experience, with the company citing capability up to 275 km/h. Key components include a fully adjustable Wilbers upside-down fork extended by 30 mm for added lean-angle clearance, a fully adjustable Wilbers rear shock, and a BMW M 1000 RR carbon front wheel. The build also incorporates carbon-fiber parts from BMW Motorrad’s catalog and Ilmberger Carbon Parts, along with adjustable Advik hand levers, milled BMW Motorrad footrests, and an Akrapovič titanium exhaust with a carbon end cap. At Daytona, BMW plans to display the R 1300 R Superhooligan alongside its historic counterpart: the Butler & Smith BMW R 90 S, supplied by BMW Group Classic from the BMW Museum and prepared in the brand’s in-house racing workshop for appearance at the event. Reuniting the names behind BMW’s 1976 breakthrough BMW is also framing the Daytona weekend as a 50-year reunion of the figures tied to its 1976 success. That season marked the launch of the AMA Superbike Series as a national U.S. championship—an opportunity Butler & Smith seized to reinforce the performance reputation of the R 90 S. The effort required chassis upgrades and meaningful power gains, led by chief mechanic and engine tuner Udo Gietl, with chassis development handled by Todd Schuster. The Butler & Smith roster featured Pridmore, McLaughlin, and Gary Fisher on works-prepared R 90 S race bikes. On March 6, 1976, McLaughlin edged Pridmore in a photo finish for a BMW one-two, while Fisher’s run ended with a gearbox failure after he had led for several laps. By season’s end, Pridmore delivered the ultimate result for the program, becoming the first AMA Superbike Champion. BMW says Daytona will bring together McLaughlin and Pridmore, along with Fisher’s daughters Heidi and Kimberly, Gietl, and other guests of honor—this time around the original R 90 S racers and the modern R 1300 R Superhooligan created to honor them. The post BMW Unveils R 1300 R Superhooligan appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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Suzuki’s DR-Z4SM has grown up, gotten a haircut and added some fancy new tricks. But is it still the same loveable larrikin at heart? Suzuki’s DR-Z400 has always been one of those bikes that ignored the usual rules of motorcycling fashion. It didn’t need big numbers, cutting-edge tech or a flashy spec sheet to earn its reputation – it just needed to turn up every day, cop a hiding and ask for more. For years the DR-Z was the default answer to an enormous range of questions: What should I commute on that won’t die? What can I take down a fire trail on the weekend? What’s a tough dual sport I can ride through South America? In SM trim, it became a gateway drug into motard culture – basic, tough, easy to live with and endlessly moddable, with a playful chassis and a punchy single-cylinder character that made even mundane trips feel like you were getting away with something. Part of why the old DR-Z400 was so loved was precisely because it was so uncomplicated; it was a simple single with dirtbike DNA, long-travel suspenders and a chassis that begged to be thrown at kerbs, roundabouts and backroads with equal enthusiasm. It was never the most powerful thing in the class, but owners could ride them hard, drop them, fix them cheaply, then do it all again. But time moves on, and modern emissions and safety rules couldn’t care less about nostalgia. The old DR-Z’s biggest strength – its old-school simplicity – also became the reason it couldn’t just carry on forever unchanged. TIME FOR SOME TECH Suzuki has dragged the DR-Z into the modern era with the full SIRS electronic suite (Suzuki Intelligent Ride System) that includes switchable rear ABS (front stays on), switchable traction control, ride-by-wire, Suzuki Easy Start, an LCD dash, LED lighting all round, and three riding modes (A, B, C). Compact LED dash gets the job done All modes offer the same ultimate peak power but alter how the engine gets there. Mode A offers the sharpest response, Mode B is the balanced one, and Mode C softens response for slippery conditions – like espresso, flat white and decaf for your right wrist. Traction control gives you two road settings: a dedicated Gravel mode and the ability to switch it off entirely. See what we mean about motard simplicity? Whether riding modes are necessary on a 28kW (37.5hp) bike is debatable, but the softer modes would be useful for learners in taming the strong initial throttle response – particularly in first gear. The switchable rear ABS and TC presets are terrific, broadening the SM’s usefulness when the surface changes besides just making it more fun. The rear ABS setting isn’t remembered when you restart the bike, and it’s a press-and-hold function while stationary to reselect. Slightly annoying, but also probably the sensible call for a LAMS bike when wet roads enter the chat. Refreshingly, the TC does stay set to the last chosen option; it’s nice not to have to reconfirm your competence every time you restart the bike. PROPER MOTARD ERGOS As you’d expect for a supermotard, the seat is reasonably tall at 890mm, which meant it was easier for this average-height tester to step onto the left footpeg with the sidestand down before swinging my leg over. Once seated, the suspension settles into a manageable stance, and the narrow seat helps your boot find the deck at traffic lights even if you don’t have giraffe legs. Suzuki does offer a 30mm lower seat as an option for those who are a bit on the shorter side too. Our DR-Z450SM was optioned with the Genuine Suzuki DC Socket The great thing about motards is how versatile they are, largely thanks to the spacious riding position. You get loads of leg room, an upright posture and high ’bars, which makes it a surprisingly comfortable thing to buzz around town on. The tall seating position is great for reading the road ahead, and the grunty single-cylinder engine means you can hit gaps without feeling like you’re holding anyone up. The trade-offs are predictable: basically no wind protection, and a skinnier perch that concentrates pressure across a smaller cross section of your posterior. Damo thought the small round headlight fitted the styling brief perfectly. What’s your opinion? The seat itself is clearly designed for proper motard riding, ideally shaped for sliding back and forth when you’re getting busy. There’s enough padding, but I still found it a bit wince-inducing on longer stints. That’s not something a motard needs to apologise for, but if I were commuting a lot, I’d be looking for a comfier seat or investing in some padded cycling shorts. No real complaints otherwise. The mirrors work, and the LCD display is easy enough to take in at a glance despite its compact size. Although there are some vibes through the ’bars, the engine is surprisingly smooth. King of the urban jungle? You betcha! SINGLE AND LOVIN’ IT The new DR-Z engine is a little 398cc peach. It feels like it punches well above its weight through the first half of the rev range, before tailing off quickly as you approach the top of the tacho. But that suits the SM character perfectly and makes the DR punchy and eager in urban stop-go riding – territory all motards worth their salt should excel in. The single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC four-valve layout might sound familiar, but Suzuki has changed a huge number of components to meet current regs without gutting performance. Highlights include titanium intake valves and hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves (lighter and they allow more freedom in camshaft design), revised intake and exhaust cams, revised valve springs, a revised cylinder head, a new piston designed to reduce mechanical loss, and revised crankcases aimed at reducing pumping loss and oil mixing loss. There’s also a new airbox and inlet design aimed at reducing intake resistance while keeping response sharp. Suzuki also runs dual iridium spark plugs now, improving combustion efficiency, smoothing power delivery, and lowering fuel consumption and emissions. Snap the throttle open in first and it’ll even wave the front tyre in the air for a moment, though you have to really nail the timing and weight transfer to repeat those shenanigans in second. The ride-by-wire fuel injection is excellent and makes the engine more tenacious and controllable at low speeds on rough surfaces or bush tracks, and it improves cold starts and running at elevation. Suzuki uses a 10-hole injector to improve atomisation, all managed via a 42mm electronic ride-by-wire throttle body, which is also how the riding modes and traction control shape the throttle characteristics. At higher cruising speeds out on the freeway the engine is perfectly willing, but the five-speed gearbox means it’s working for its supper, bustling along rather than loping. There’s still enough headroom for overtakes, though, so you won’t run out of tacho unless you’re being quite naughty. Overall, it’s a cracking little engine, with a surprisingly strident bark despite the fact Suzuki’s exhaust now includes a dual-stage catalytic converter plus an O2 sensor to meet Euro 5+ emissions standards, along with a double-wall design to reduce heat transfer. With a Yoshimura can, it’d announce your arrival to every yapping mongrel within three suburbs and perhaps liberate another pony or two at the top end. Standard muffler looks the part and sounds okay The clutch assembly is new too, adopting the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS). It’s claimed to reduce lever effort, and the slipper function partially disengages on downshifts to reduce engine braking, limit rear tyre hopping and smooth deceleration. This works extremely effectively, so much so that it actually made ‘backing it in’ in classic supermoto style a bit more difficult at first as it reduces back-torque effect when you’re braking hard from high rpm, but a solid dab of rear brake is all it takes to get the rear end to swing out anyway. REBEL WITH CLAWS I love the take-no-prisoners stance of an angry motard and the DR-Z4SM is no exception. The spoked 17-inch wheels, rangy suspenders and high tail unit tell you exactly what it’s about. This test bike also came with axle sliders and handguards, which complete the look as well as adding some useful protection. The round headlight looks great to my eye, and in true Zook tradition the bluish paint looks schmick. The guards and plastics are, well, plasticky given the dual-sport roots, but that’s part of the genre. The overall balance of attitude and quality is spot on. Details like the exposed cable runs up near the front, engine cover, spoked wire wheels, cast aluminium swingarm and full LED lighting give it a gnarly but modern edge. Rear suspension is fully adjustable and provides 277mm of travel The SM comes with beefed-up suspension compared to its dual-purpose ‘S’ sibling, to cope with the heavier braking and sharp hits of tarmac motard life, with a KYB inverted fork providing 260mm of travel, and a link-type KYB monoshock delivering 277mm of rear wheel travel – both fully adjustable. Around town the damping feels firmish but well judged. At times I thought it could be slightly more forgiving over sharp bumps, but once you start pushing you appreciate the damping support, so I didn’t need to fiddle with clickers. Spoked motard wheels rule Up front there’s a single 310mm disc, but you can brake plenty hard enough to get the ABS pulsing with only two-three fingers. The substantial 240mm rear disc is strong and aggressive in true motard style, making it easy to step the rear out if you want. At 154kg wet, with wide ’bars and loads of leverage, the DR is so nimble it feels like you can chuck it at corners any old way you want and it’ll just stick like a tennis ball on a velcro wall. It’s ultra-flickable without feeling nervous, though if you get on the gas hard out of a tight corner it’ll lever the front off the deck sometimes, which is great fun. In urban ‘squirt-and-shoot’ riding it’s an absolute hoot: weight the generous footpegs, pivot dirtbike-style, then punch out of the corner. The extra travel and ground clearance also mean gutters and speed humps become optional side quests. Hit your favourite twisty road and it’ll play that game just as well too. You can attack apexes with a sportsbike-style crouch and proper lean, or just cruise around upright enjoying the breeze and the easy ride position. It’s a versatile chassis that rewards whatever riding style you bring to it. You won’t be spending long days on interstate freeways with the standard seat – believe us I’d even be tempted to fit a bigger rear sprocket to accentuate the grunty demeanour a tad more, though that would obviously make it more breathless on the highway and sacrifice some fuel economy. The single is quite frugal with sensible-ish use, meaning you could still see close to 200 clicks between refills despite the small 8.7L tank. PRICE-POINT QUANDARY The more bikes I’ve tested, the more I reckon lightweight motorcycles offer the purest enjoyment you can have on two wheels. But at $15k, the DR-Z4SM becomes less ‘cheap fun loophole’ and more ‘premium toy’. It’s a solid whack more expensive than Suzuki’s own terrific $12,990 GSX-8S – a bike with double the capacity and twice the cylinders. In adding more sophistication and refinement, Suzuki has nudged the DR-Z into a higher price bracket. Motard pricing in general is hard not to side-eye a bit, although the big, orange pumpkin in the patch is KTM’s 390 SMC R, which boasts a six-speed box and slightly more power for just $10,695. Still, the DR-Z4SM would be great for a learner who wants something versatile and fun that can grow with them. And it still does what DR-Zs have always done: show up, take abuse and make you look for the long way home. PROS – Full SIRS electronics add modern safety without killing the character; ride-by-wire fuelling is excellent, with strong low-speed control and crisp response. CONS – Five-speed gearbox feels dated, especially at freeway speeds; firm seat limits long-distance comfort without aftermarket help; price pushes it into premium territory. Competition Honda CRF450RL – $13,807 ride away KTM 390 SMC R – $10,695 ride away Kawasaki KLX230SM – $8848 ride away WHAT ABOUT A DR-Z4S WITH ROAD RIMS? Buying the DR-Z4S and adding a second wheel set is the classic ‘one bike, two jobs’ strategy: run 21/18in dirt wheels for trails and backroads, then swap to 17in road rims when you want supermoto response and road tyre grip. It’s not a new idea, but it’s still one of the most practical ways to get genuine dual-purpose versatility without owning two bikes. Doing it properly, though, is more than just buying rims. Ideally you want a complete second set: wheels with discs fitted, correct spacers, a matching rear sprocket, and tyres suited to each job. That’s what makes wheel swaps quick enough to actually do, rather than becoming a ‘maybe next weekend’ project. Cost is the catch. A quality set can easily run into a few thousand dollars by the time you add discs, sprocket and the small hardware that makes it all bolt on. It can still make financial sense versus buying a second bike, but only if you’re serious about using both set-ups. SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type Single cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC Bore & stroke 90.0mm x 62.6mm Capacity 398cc Compression ratio 11.1:1 Cooling Liquid Fuelling Fuel injection Transmission Constant mesh 5-speed gearbox Clutch Wet, multi-disc Final drive Chain PERFORMANCE Power 28kW (37.5hp) @ 8000 rpm (claimed) Torque 37Nm @ 6500 rpm (claimed) Top speed N/A Fuel consumption 3.85 L/100 km ELECTRONICS Type Ride by wire Rider aids ABS, switchable rear ABS, traction control, rider modes, Suzuki Easy Start Modes A, B, C CHASSIS Frame material Steel Frame type Twin Spar Rake 26.5° Trail 95 mm Wheelbase 1495mm SUSPENSION Type KYB Front Inverted telescopic fork, adjustable, 260mm travel Rear Single shock absorber, adjustable, 277mm travel WHEELS & BRAKES Front 17in spoked Rear 17in spoked Tyres Tubed Front 120/70R-17M/C58H Rear 140/70R-17M/C66H Front brake 310mm disc brake, axial mount calliper, ABS Rear brake 240mm disc brake, axial mount calliper, ABS DIMENSIONS Weight 154kg (wet) Seat height 890mm Width 885mm Height 1190mm Length 2195mm Ground clearance 260mm Fuel capacity 8.7L BUSINESS END Price $14,990 ride away Colour options Solid Special White or Sky Grey Contact suzuki.com.au The post ROAD TEST | Suzuki DR-Z4SM appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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Suzuki’s DR-Z4SM has grown up, gotten a haircut and added some fancy new tricks. But is it still the same loveable larrikin at heart? Suzuki’s DR-Z400 has always been one of those bikes that ignored the usual rules of motorcycling fashion. It didn’t need big numbers, cutting-edge tech or a flashy spec sheet to earn its reputation – it just needed to turn up every day, cop a hiding and ask for more. For years the DR-Z was the default answer to an enormous range of questions: What should I commute on that won’t die? What can I take down a fire trail on the weekend? What’s a tough dual sport I can ride through South America? In SM trim, it became a gateway drug into motard culture – basic, tough, easy to live with and endlessly moddable, with a playful chassis and a punchy single-cylinder character that made even mundane trips feel like you were getting away with something. Part of why the old DR-Z400 was so loved was precisely because it was so uncomplicated; it was a simple single with dirtbike DNA, long-travel suspenders and a chassis that begged to be thrown at kerbs, roundabouts and backroads with equal enthusiasm. It was never the most powerful thing in the class, but owners could ride them hard, drop them, fix them cheaply, then do it all again. But time moves on, and modern emissions and safety rules couldn’t care less about nostalgia. The old DR-Z’s biggest strength – its old-school simplicity – also became the reason it couldn’t just carry on forever unchanged. TIME FOR SOME TECH Suzuki has dragged the DR-Z into the modern era with the full SIRS electronic suite (Suzuki Intelligent Ride System) that includes switchable rear ABS (front stays on), switchable traction control, ride-by-wire, Suzuki Easy Start, an LCD dash, LED lighting all round, and three riding modes (A, B, C). Compact LED dash gets the job done All modes offer the same ultimate peak power but alter how the engine gets there. Mode A offers the sharpest response, Mode B is the balanced one, and Mode C softens response for slippery conditions – like espresso, flat white and decaf for your right wrist. Traction control gives you two road settings: a dedicated Gravel mode and the ability to switch it off entirely. See what we mean about motard simplicity? Whether riding modes are necessary on a 28kW (37.5hp) bike is debatable, but the softer modes would be useful for learners in taming the strong initial throttle response – particularly in first gear. The switchable rear ABS and TC presets are terrific, broadening the SM’s usefulness when the surface changes besides just making it more fun. The rear ABS setting isn’t remembered when you restart the bike, and it’s a press-and-hold function while stationary to reselect. Slightly annoying, but also probably the sensible call for a LAMS bike when wet roads enter the chat. Refreshingly, the TC does stay set to the last chosen option; it’s nice not to have to reconfirm your competence every time you restart the bike. PROPER MOTARD ERGOS As you’d expect for a supermotard, the seat is reasonably tall at 890mm, which meant it was easier for this average-height tester to step onto the left footpeg with the sidestand down before swinging my leg over. Once seated, the suspension settles into a manageable stance, and the narrow seat helps your boot find the deck at traffic lights even if you don’t have giraffe legs. Suzuki does offer a 30mm lower seat as an option for those who are a bit on the shorter side too. Our DR-Z450SM was optioned with the Genuine Suzuki DC Socket The great thing about motards is how versatile they are, largely thanks to the spacious riding position. You get loads of leg room, an upright posture and high ’bars, which makes it a surprisingly comfortable thing to buzz around town on. The tall seating position is great for reading the road ahead, and the grunty single-cylinder engine means you can hit gaps without feeling like you’re holding anyone up. The trade-offs are predictable: basically no wind protection, and a skinnier perch that concentrates pressure across a smaller cross section of your posterior. Damo thought the small round headlight fitted the styling brief perfectly. What’s your opinion? The seat itself is clearly designed for proper motard riding, ideally shaped for sliding back and forth when you’re getting busy. There’s enough padding, but I still found it a bit wince-inducing on longer stints. That’s not something a motard needs to apologise for, but if I were commuting a lot, I’d be looking for a comfier seat or investing in some padded cycling shorts. No real complaints otherwise. The mirrors work, and the LCD display is easy enough to take in at a glance despite its compact size. Although there are some vibes through the ’bars, the engine is surprisingly smooth. King of the urban jungle? You betcha! SINGLE AND LOVIN’ IT The new DR-Z engine is a little 398cc peach. It feels like it punches well above its weight through the first half of the rev range, before tailing off quickly as you approach the top of the tacho. But that suits the SM character perfectly and makes the DR punchy and eager in urban stop-go riding – territory all motards worth their salt should excel in. The single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC four-valve layout might sound familiar, but Suzuki has changed a huge number of components to meet current regs without gutting performance. Highlights include titanium intake valves and hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves (lighter and they allow more freedom in camshaft design), revised intake and exhaust cams, revised valve springs, a revised cylinder head, a new piston designed to reduce mechanical loss, and revised crankcases aimed at reducing pumping loss and oil mixing loss. There’s also a new airbox and inlet design aimed at reducing intake resistance while keeping response sharp. Suzuki also runs dual iridium spark plugs now, improving combustion efficiency, smoothing power delivery, and lowering fuel consumption and emissions. Snap the throttle open in first and it’ll even wave the front tyre in the air for a moment, though you have to really nail the timing and weight transfer to repeat those shenanigans in second. The ride-by-wire fuel injection is excellent and makes the engine more tenacious and controllable at low speeds on rough surfaces or bush tracks, and it improves cold starts and running at elevation. Suzuki uses a 10-hole injector to improve atomisation, all managed via a 42mm electronic ride-by-wire throttle body, which is also how the riding modes and traction control shape the throttle characteristics. At higher cruising speeds out on the freeway the engine is perfectly willing, but the five-speed gearbox means it’s working for its supper, bustling along rather than loping. There’s still enough headroom for overtakes, though, so you won’t run out of tacho unless you’re being quite naughty. Overall, it’s a cracking little engine, with a surprisingly strident bark despite the fact Suzuki’s exhaust now includes a dual-stage catalytic converter plus an O2 sensor to meet Euro 5+ emissions standards, along with a double-wall design to reduce heat transfer. With a Yoshimura can, it’d announce your arrival to every yapping mongrel within three suburbs and perhaps liberate another pony or two at the top end. Standard muffler looks the part and sounds okay The clutch assembly is new too, adopting the Suzuki Clutch Assist System (SCAS). It’s claimed to reduce lever effort, and the slipper function partially disengages on downshifts to reduce engine braking, limit rear tyre hopping and smooth deceleration. This works extremely effectively, so much so that it actually made ‘backing it in’ in classic supermoto style a bit more difficult at first as it reduces back-torque effect when you’re braking hard from high rpm, but a solid dab of rear brake is all it takes to get the rear end to swing out anyway. REBEL WITH CLAWS I love the take-no-prisoners stance of an angry motard and the DR-Z4SM is no exception. The spoked 17-inch wheels, rangy suspenders and high tail unit tell you exactly what it’s about. This test bike also came with axle sliders and handguards, which complete the look as well as adding some useful protection. The round headlight looks great to my eye, and in true Zook tradition the bluish paint looks schmick. The guards and plastics are, well, plasticky given the dual-sport roots, but that’s part of the genre. The overall balance of attitude and quality is spot on. Details like the exposed cable runs up near the front, engine cover, spoked wire wheels, cast aluminium swingarm and full LED lighting give it a gnarly but modern edge. Rear suspension is fully adjustable and provides 277mm of travel The SM comes with beefed-up suspension compared to its dual-purpose ‘S’ sibling, to cope with the heavier braking and sharp hits of tarmac motard life, with a KYB inverted fork providing 260mm of travel, and a link-type KYB monoshock delivering 277mm of rear wheel travel – both fully adjustable. Around town the damping feels firmish but well judged. At times I thought it could be slightly more forgiving over sharp bumps, but once you start pushing you appreciate the damping support, so I didn’t need to fiddle with clickers. Spoked motard wheels rule Up front there’s a single 310mm disc, but you can brake plenty hard enough to get the ABS pulsing with only two-three fingers. The substantial 240mm rear disc is strong and aggressive in true motard style, making it easy to step the rear out if you want. At 154kg wet, with wide ’bars and loads of leverage, the DR is so nimble it feels like you can chuck it at corners any old way you want and it’ll just stick like a tennis ball on a velcro wall. It’s ultra-flickable without feeling nervous, though if you get on the gas hard out of a tight corner it’ll lever the front off the deck sometimes, which is great fun. In urban ‘squirt-and-shoot’ riding it’s an absolute hoot: weight the generous footpegs, pivot dirtbike-style, then punch out of the corner. The extra travel and ground clearance also mean gutters and speed humps become optional side quests. Hit your favourite twisty road and it’ll play that game just as well too. You can attack apexes with a sportsbike-style crouch and proper lean, or just cruise around upright enjoying the breeze and the easy ride position. It’s a versatile chassis that rewards whatever riding style you bring to it. You won’t be spending long days on interstate freeways with the standard seat – believe us I’d even be tempted to fit a bigger rear sprocket to accentuate the grunty demeanour a tad more, though that would obviously make it more breathless on the highway and sacrifice some fuel economy. The single is quite frugal with sensible-ish use, meaning you could still see close to 200 clicks between refills despite the small 8.7L tank. PRICE-POINT QUANDARY The more bikes I’ve tested, the more I reckon lightweight motorcycles offer the purest enjoyment you can have on two wheels. But at $15k, the DR-Z4SM becomes less ‘cheap fun loophole’ and more ‘premium toy’. It’s a solid whack more expensive than Suzuki’s own terrific $12,990 GSX-8S – a bike with double the capacity and twice the cylinders. In adding more sophistication and refinement, Suzuki has nudged the DR-Z into a higher price bracket. Motard pricing in general is hard not to side-eye a bit, although the big, orange pumpkin in the patch is KTM’s 390 SMC R, which boasts a six-speed box and slightly more power for just $10,695. Still, the DR-Z4SM would be great for a learner who wants something versatile and fun that can grow with them. And it still does what DR-Zs have always done: show up, take abuse and make you look for the long way home. PROS – Full SIRS electronics add modern safety without killing the character; ride-by-wire fuelling is excellent, with strong low-speed control and crisp response. CONS – Five-speed gearbox feels dated, especially at freeway speeds; firm seat limits long-distance comfort without aftermarket help; price pushes it into premium territory. Competition Honda CRF450RL – $13,807 ride away KTM 390 SMC R – $10,695 ride away Kawasaki KLX230SM – $8848 ride away WHAT ABOUT A DR-Z4S WITH ROAD RIMS? Buying the DR-Z4S and adding a second wheel set is the classic ‘one bike, two jobs’ strategy: run 21/18in dirt wheels for trails and backroads, then swap to 17in road rims when you want supermoto response and road tyre grip. It’s not a new idea, but it’s still one of the most practical ways to get genuine dual-purpose versatility without owning two bikes. Doing it properly, though, is more than just buying rims. Ideally you want a complete second set: wheels with discs fitted, correct spacers, a matching rear sprocket, and tyres suited to each job. That’s what makes wheel swaps quick enough to actually do, rather than becoming a ‘maybe next weekend’ project. Cost is the catch. A quality set can easily run into a few thousand dollars by the time you add discs, sprocket and the small hardware that makes it all bolt on. It can still make financial sense versus buying a second bike, but only if you’re serious about using both set-ups. SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE Type Single cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC Bore & stroke 90.0mm x 62.6mm Capacity 398cc Compression ratio 11.1:1 Cooling Liquid Fuelling Fuel injection Transmission Constant mesh 5-speed gearbox Clutch Wet, multi-disc Final drive Chain PERFORMANCE Power 28kW (37.5hp) @ 8000 rpm (claimed) Torque 37Nm @ 6500 rpm (claimed) Top speed N/A Fuel consumption 3.85 L/100 km ELECTRONICS Type Ride by wire Rider aids ABS, switchable rear ABS, traction control, rider modes, Suzuki Easy Start Modes A, B, C CHASSIS Frame material Steel Frame type Twin Spar Rake 26.5° Trail 95 mm Wheelbase 1495mm SUSPENSION Type KYB Front Inverted telescopic fork, adjustable, 260mm travel Rear Single shock absorber, adjustable, 277mm travel WHEELS & BRAKES Front 17in spoked Rear 17in spoked Tyres Tubed Front 120/70R-17M/C58H Rear 140/70R-17M/C66H Front brake 310mm disc brake, axial mount calliper, ABS Rear brake 240mm disc brake, axial mount calliper, ABS DIMENSIONS Weight 154kg (wet) Seat height 890mm Width 885mm Height 1190mm Length 2195mm Ground clearance 260mm Fuel capacity 8.7L BUSINESS END Price $14,990 ride away Colour options Solid Special White or Sky Grey Contact suzuki.com.au The post ROAD TEST | Suzuki DR-Z4SM appeared first on Australian Motorcycle News.
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After 30 years of making motorcycle travel gear on home soil, Andy White has announced that Andy Strapz will cease manufacturing. White, whose factory has operated out of Seaford in Melbourne’s outer south-east, confirmed that production of all Andy Strapz product lines will wind down in a stepwise fashion as existing raw materials are exhausted, with a full shutdown scheduled for June 20. “We’ve come to a natural turning point,” White said. “It’s time to close this chapter and turn the page.” For anyone who’s been putting off a purchase, or needs to replace a well-worn A-Bag, set of Smart Strapz or soft panniers, the next couple of months represent the last chance to buy genuine Australian-made Andy Strapz gear. White is expecting a surge in demand as the closure becomes public knowledge, so getting in early is the play. A full schedule of what disappears when is available on the Andy Strapz website. It’s the end of a remarkable story. White, a former emergency nurse who topped his state during nursing training, built Andy Strapz from the ground up after identifying a simple problem: the gear available to touring riders wasn’t good enough. His first product, the original Andy Strapz stretch strap with Velcro fastening, was designed as a safer alternative to occy straps, which White knew from nursing experience were responsible for eye injuries when they let go unexpectedly. From that starting point, he developed a full ecosystem of travel gear including the Smart Strapz, Piggyback Strapz, the iconic A-Bag system and a soft-pannier range that became a staple for adventure tourers and rally competitors alike. What set Andy Strapz apart, and what makes the closure genuinely significant for Australian motorcycling, is that every single product was manufactured in Australia by Australian workers. At a time when the industry standard was to design locally and manufacture cheaply overseas, White held the line. “Our reputation is actually what sells our products and our warranty issues are virtually nil,” he told INFO MOTO in a 2023 feature. That commitment to quality and local manufacturing is what makes this closure sting. When the factory goes dark on June 20, Australia loses one of its last genuine motorcycle gear manufacturers. But White isn’t disappearing entirely. Drawing on three decades of designing and testing adventure travel equipment, he’s transitioning to focus on Travels with Andy, a curated long-format motorcycle expedition business offering immersive journeys through India, Nepal and Sri Lanka in partnership with in-country operator Karma Yatri. To grab the last of the stock, check the production wind-down schedule, or find out more about Andy’s next chapter, head to andystrapz.com. How Andy Strapz created Australia’s most successful motorcycle accessory manufacturing business 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 Aprilia Tuareg 660, 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 END OF AN ERA: Andy Strapz to close after three decades of Australian manufacturing appeared first on INFO MOTO.
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BMW Motorrad’s Custom Speed Shop has built a one-off naked superbike to honour Steve McLaughlin’s historic 1976 Daytona 200 victory, and it’s being raced at this year’s event. The BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan is a one-off creation from BMW Motorrad’s Custom Speed Shop, built to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Steve McLaughlin’s victory in the very first AMA Superbike race at Daytona on March 6, 1976. McLaughlin and his Butler & Smith teammate Reg Pridmore, who went on to claim the inaugural AMA Superbike Championship that same year, both piloted BMW R 90 S machines to make history. Now, half a century on, BMW is bringing the story full circle. The project was led by Philipp Ludwig as project manager, alongside vehicle designer Andreas Martin, colour and graphic designer Theresa Stukenbrock, and prototype builders Paul Summerer and Thomas Becker. The result is a machine that sits firmly in the custom naked superbike genre while drawing clear visual threads back to the R 90 S of 1976. The R 1300 R’s 107kW boxer twin forms the mechanical heart of the build, but virtually everything else has been reinterpreted. The front fender and tank side panels are painted in the original BMW R 90 S colour of the period, and the starting number 83 pays direct tribute to McLaughlin’s Daytona entry. The same blue found on BMW M 1000 RR brake calipers appears on the aluminium rear frame and the fixed fork tubes of the fully adjustable Wilbers upside-down front fork which has been extended by 30mm for additional lean angle clearance. That blue carries through to the spring of the Wilbers rear suspension unit as well. Performance hardware is thoroughly race-focused. A BMW M 1000 RR carbon front wheel reduces unsprung mass, while a wide suite of carbon fibre components from both the BMW Motorrad accessories catalogue and Ilmberger Carbon Parts keeps overall weight in check. An Akrapovic titanium exhaust system with carbon end silencer handles sound duties, with BMW Motorrad milled footrests and Advik fully adjustable hand levers rounding out the cockpit. Top speed is quoted at 275km/h. Brand ambassador Nate Kern will race the Superhooligan in the Mission Foods Super Hooligan series presented by Roland Sands, held as part of the MotoAmerica Daytona 200 weekend from March 5 to 7, 2026. The bike won’t be alone in the paddock. The original victorious BMW R 90 S racing machines from the 1976 season will be on display alongside the Superhooligan, freshly prepared by BMW Group Classic from the BMW Museum’s in-house racing workshop. McLaughlin himself will be in attendance, along with AMA Superbike Champion Reg Pridmore, the daughters of Gary Fisher, whose own R 90 S led the race before a gearbox failure denied a sensational BMW 1-2-3, and long-time Butler & Smith chief mechanic Udo Gietl, whose engine tuning work was central to BMW’s success that day. 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 Aprilia Tuareg 660, 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 BMW R 1300 R Superhooligan: A custom tribute to 50 years of Daytona glory appeared first on INFO MOTO.