Be sure to save the date, as an orange bleeder you won’t want to miss this. The annual European KTM ADVENTURE RALLY will forage north and across the spectacular topography of Norway for the 2023 edition that will mean plenty more exploration, adrenaline, camaraderie and good times.

24 - 28 July 2023 will bring likeminded bikers and KTM motorcyclists fueled to #DARE2ADV together in northern Europe for another spectacular three-day ‘sortie’. Places on the KTM ADVENTURE RALLY are always limited and eagerly sought after, especially with successful events in Italy, Bosnia, Greece and France in recent years. Norway will invite at least 150 riders to base themselves from the Kvitfjell Hotel, close to Lillehammer; allowing 24 to slot into four tour guide groups with the rest of the posse able to self-navigate, ‘Rally style’, thanks to GPS instructions. KTM ambassadors like Chris Birch will be on-hand for help, instruction and storytelling while each day of the program will feature dinner, music and entertainment as the KTM technical crew ensure the orange machinery is in fine fettle for the kilometers to come. 

All the hassle regarding accommodation and the search for the perfect mix of scenic but challenging and exciting routes has been removed; simply show-up with a KTM, an attitude for adventure in Scandinavia and a willingness to create some memories! 

Want a taste of more, or to see exactly what the KTM ADVENTURE RALLY is all about? Then watch this behind-the-scenes ‘tell-all’ film made from the 2022 incarnation in southern France.

For the first time, reservations for the KTM ADVENTURE RALLY will be made online, with a first-come-first-served policy. The portal will be open for bookings on 28th of February 2023 where pricing details will be provided. 

The KTM ADVENTURE RALLY is all about inclusion. The event encourages all KTM bikes, all skills and all levels to ride together: learning, laughing, living. The #1 priority is enjoyment. Don’t lose out. 

Essential need to know 2023 KTM ADVENTURE RALLY info: 
// 150 places for all KTM riders (and possibly more) in the spirit of #DARE2ADV on a first-come-first-served basis 
// Norway is the setting for the 2023 event from July 24 (registration day), July 25-27 (riding days) and July 28 (departure day) 
// Limited slots available and online booking possible from February, 28

The benchmark stays but will you go further? The KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S removed limits and boundaries for any motorcyclist curious to #DARE2ADV. How? The power, versatility, assurance, and technical excellence prompted riders to race into the unknown; safe in the knowledge that what they had underneath them would handle any requirement with a deft touch.

For 2023 KTM has taken the rich base of the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S – engineered to conquer mile after mile on all types of terrain – and added a fresh sheen as well as several refinements for the benefit of practical adventuring.Eyes will be drawn to the two new shades: the glow of the unmissable KTM orange-and-black trim or the more neutral but elegant hue of KTM’s graded gray aesthetic. The orange, that stretches all the way through to the forged aluminum subframe, engineered to offer a lower seat (at 869 mm or 849 mm) superb load-carrying capability and contains a raft of components, is like a badge of honor for hardcore explorers. However, the classy gray spreads across the bodywork; chiseled to prioritize agile handling, front end confidence, comfort, protection and houses the 23-liter three-part tank with superlative fuel range. The tone is as fetching for a swift dash into the office as it would be for a blast across country borders.Roaming roads everywhere and anywhere with the 2023 KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S is now a lot easier thanks to augmented navigation software. KTM already made the 7” TFT display a cinch for customization due to the infographics and menu system that gave the rider full control over the RIDE MODES, advanced WP Semi-Active Suspension, ABS settings and Adaptive Cruise Control: the combination of intuitive handlebar switches and access to the technical possibilities of the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S was a major calling card for one of the company’s flagship models. For 2023 KTM aimed for more utility. Adventurers can count on extra options with their navigation plotting. The KTMConnect App now boasts Turn-by-Turn+ guidance and waypoints markers while on the go and without having to stop and adjust any mobile device. The same functionality also extends to audio tracks and listing ‘Favorites’ when it comes to phone calls. Hands on the grips not only means gobbling more mileage but safe and more enjoyable interaction with the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S.Let’s remind ourselves why the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S is the ultimate high-performance Adventure bike. The V-Twin LC8 rumbles to 160 hp and 138 Nm of torque and the devastating spectrum of power allows the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S to glide on cruise, dip through traffic or devore highways with glee. The compact heart of the bike is carefully regulated by one of KTM’s most advanced electronic management architectures: it administers the suspension configuration and reaction, ride height, ABS, RIDE MODES, Tire Pressure Management, Anti-dive and more. The unit fits inside a light 10 kg chrome-molybdenum stainless steel frame honed for handling the short blasts and mountain passes as well as the long haul. The rest of the package befits a premium motorcycle for travelling: the LED lights, reengineered windscreen and adjuster, multi-part saddle, light aluminum side-stand. The list and the specs have already been met with wide acclaim. The KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S can be elevated even further with optional electronic packs, a Quickshifter+ and WP Suspension Pro amongst other upgrades.

Although a rider might be wishing to reach one, no KTM model is an ‘island’. The KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S revels in a wide raft of specially made add-ons and accessories in the KTM PowerParts collection. From extra protective parts, aesthetic touches through detailing, performance enhancements or travel items like luggage, racks and bags; the KTM PowerParts are as enticing as it is well equipped.

Highlights of the 2023 KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S
// Two brand new color schemes with prominent black and orange as well as graded gray choices
// Enhanced navigation potential with Turn-by-Turn+ guidance and more travel options
// Versatile Euro5 V-twin LC8 engine with 160 hp and 138 Nm of torque means a world without limits
// Lightweight ChroMo stainless steel chassis with geometry that accentuates cornering potential & stability
// Sophisticated WP Semi-Active Suspension hardware and software smooths out every route, all the time, any time
// Cutting-edge technology and Bosch 6D sensor to influence bike behavior and ABS settings
// Ergonomics and bodywork emphasizing control but also comfort and confidence, 849 or 869 mm seat height
// A host of optimized travel-minded features: illuminated switches, footpegs, stand, windshield, LED lights and simplistic but advanced dashboard interactivity
// Adaptive Cruise Control as standard
// Mitas TERRA FORCE-R tires specialized for the KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S to guarantee the best offering of grip and long-term performance

Snap tight the luggage straps, zip-up the all-weather riding gear, open the GPS, connect the device, close your eyes and dream of the road, trail and the day ahead. Take the 2023 KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S into the unknown from January 2023. Begin the journey from any Authorized KTM dealer.

Find high-resolution images and further material HERE.
More information about the 2023 KTM 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE S can be seen on ktm.com.

A Water Purification System from Yamaha Motor Ushering in a New Life for People in Emerging Markets

The Yamaha Clean Water Supply System (YCW) is a compact water purification system that uses the natural water purification method of slow sand filtration. These facilities have been demonstrably effective in small villages or settlements lacking a source of clean water in developing countries.

In 2022, new YCW units were installed in villages in Kenya and Ethiopia, bringing the total number in operation to 45 across 15 countries, primarily in Africa and Asia.

Yamaha Motor aims to further expand the introduction of the YCW through close collaboration and cooperation with governments and international organizations.

Bringing Clean Water to People Around the World

The Yamaha Clean Water Supply System (YCW) is a compact water purification system that uses slow sand filtration, a natural water purification method. It is an effective system for small settlements or villages in developing countries without access to potable water. Operating a YCW facility does not require a large amount of electricity, maintenance by specialists, or special chemical agents, and can be maintained independently by residents.Access to clean water is a serious issue and part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. To date, it is estimated that 26% of the world’s population—approximately 2 billion people—do not have access to safely managed drinking water services (UNICEF/2020). Yamaha Motor is actively working to introduce the YCW system through cooperation with international organizations, NGOs, Japanese embassies, and other organizations in each target country. At present, 45 units are in operation in Africa and Asia, and the potable water they provide is contributing to the reduction of diseases, freeing women and children from hard work of drawing water, and giving birth to new sources of cash income for residents through water-related businesses, such as delivery services.

OKABE, Norihiko of Yamaha Motor’s Overseas Market Development Operation (OMDO) Business Unit is in charge of introducing YCWs to new locations. “Life really does change when the water changes,” he explains. “We’ve seen this happen in every location and I want to keep growing the number of settlements equipped with YCWs into the future.”

A Job Overflowing with Kando

It takes about two weeks to install a single YCW unit and that sees Okabe and other members of OMDO working hard with local residents at the construction site. However, the work itself is not a straightforward process as it often is in countries with highly developed infrastructure. When the YCW system was initially developed, there were almost no instances of an installation moving to completion exactly as planned.

“When water couldn’t be pumped because of an unknown problem with the intake pump, I took the 40 kg pump back to the hotel and struggled for days in the bathtub trying to find the culprit,” shares Okabe. “We’d face unforeseen issues one after another, like if the plumbing got clogged, we’d head into the river with the locals to inspect it, or when working at high elevations in Ethiopia, we’d be battling altitude sickness together, and so on.”

All the memories that come to his mind are of dealing with problems, but his face speaks of the incredible fulfillment he gets from his job. “It’s because I’ve seen the big smiles of the villagers the first-time clean water comes out of the faucet after all the struggles and hard work.” And as they begin to rejoice, sing, and dance, Okabe maintains that it is a scene overflowing with Kando.*

Today, the storage tanks and other parts for YCW units are manufactured in Indonesia and exported to their destined countries. “But I feel to bring clean water to more people and communities, we need to set up a means for local production,” admits Okabe. In short, the local production of YCW systems is where he now has his focus trained on, i.e., the next big challenge for the project.

*Kando is a Japanese word for the simultaneous feelings of deep satisfaction and intense excitement that we experience when we encounter something of exceptional value.

Tavullia (Italy), November 30th 2022 – Marco Bezzecchi closes the 2022 season, his first and that of the entire Team in MotoGP, with the title of Rookie of the Year, a goal he had missed in Moto3 and Moto2, but which he achieves, with two races to go, in Australia, in the Top class. A prestigious result for the entire Mooney VR46 Racing Team: a crew made up of young technicians and mechanics, many of whom come from the lower categories or are starting out in new positions and responsibilities.

Twenty races on his Ducati Desmosedici GP, a triumphant Sunday in Assen with second place under the checkered flag and an impressive season finale with Marco among the protagonists. A pole position at the Chang Circuit, P4 at Phillip Island (first among the Independents) after a hard-fought GP and the recovery that left him so close to the podium in Malaysia. All crucial pieces that means 111 points in the general standings (P14) with a total of ten placements in the Top10.

The 2022 season

“The balance of this 2022 is certainly positive: as a Team, we have grown and we have made a big step forward during the season. We finished in the best possible way, we were really competitive in the finale and we collected very solid results".

KTM has further muddied the limits of possibilities of the Travel and Adventure motorcycle sector with a sharp upgrade to its midweight monarch: the KTM 890 ADVENTURE. The 2023 edition of the bike that has made any trail, any trip, any road, or any route an exercise of ease and adrenaline thanks to unbeatable power, weight, agility, and specific features, is now even better.

The launch of the 2023 KTM 890 ADVENTURE opens the second phase of six in the 2023 #DARE2ADV campaign where KTM are challenging riders by asking them to brush-off the shackles of their own fears and doubts. The bike can do it, why can’t you? Initiatives and events seen in schemes like THE WORLD ADVENTURE WEEK and annual KTM ADVENTURE RALLIES are prime examples of the transformative experiences enabled and promoted by superlative ‘tools’ like the new KTM 890 ADVENTURE. The KTM 890 ADVENTURE has been crafted as the ultimate master of all conditions and distances. The raspy and responsive LC8 engine remains, with its fantastic output of 105 hp and 100 Nm/6500 rpm of torque. The motor puts surroundings into motion but the ride-by-wire power is as assuring as it is thrilling, controllable as it can be wild, stable as it is spectacular. A low center of gravity with the 20 liter fuel tank design pushes the slim form of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE to the fore and accentuates the ergonomics. Riders can feel the nimbleness and maneuverability in both sitting and standing positions. The robust steel subframe means that the heaviest of pillions and packages are a breeze. So, how can the best be made better? Well, KTM has put the bike into a 360 analytical spin and have pinpointed several ways in which the rider’s time in the saddle can be even more unrestrained. 

KTM grafted to place the seat height low in keeping with the tank’s contribution to the ‘ergo’ (825 mm is possible thanks to various saddle options and the lowering kit slices a further 25 mm away) while keeping ground clearance high without compromising the feeling of comfort and performance. For 2023 one of the most significant changes has been made to the front mask between the head of the bike and the fuel tank. It is now integrated with a fairing section reinforced to offer more security and more load-bearing capability for larger GPS devices. Further along, the KTM 890 ADVENTURE has wider panels on the tank and side panels to give the seat protection against unwanted bumps or scrapes. For the other bumps, reworked WP Suspension APEX 43 mm front forks now come with adjustment for rebound and compression accessible from the top caps. The APEX shock, engineered and slotted into the bike to minimize height, has new settings orientated for the wellbeing and demands of adventure riding. The use of a new 9.3 mp ABS unit feeds from the 6D sensor to enable full possible braking power in a range of scenarios. The improved ABS is synced closer to the ride modes, therefore OFFROAD ABS (maximizing braking control through disengagement on the rear wheel and lowered amount on the front) is activated automatically in OFFROAD or RALLY. The KTM 890 ADVENTURE can be clicked into STREET, OFFROAD, RAIN and an optional RALLY mode. An innovative DEMO setting gifts the rider the chance to try the full gamut of Rider Aids for the first 1,500 km before deciding whether to purchase and keep them permanently. 

KTM has streamlined the ride due to a new, higher screen that offers increased wind protection and is inspired by the product used on the KTM 450 RALLY. They have also packed more comfort into the 2-part seat with a new soft foam structure and a slimmer front fender for superior aerodynamics and rain protection. The overhauled 5” TFT display draws particular attention, not only for the revised hardware (bonded mineral glass for extra scratch and glare resistance) but the redesigned software system of menus and infographics that make alterations to the behavior of the KTM 890 ADVENTURE even simpler. The backlight changes intensity as it reacts to the environment and better synchronicity between the TFT and the KTMconnect App means seeing Turn-by-Turn+ navigation directions, listening to audio and taking calls has never been easier or more intuitive. A 2023 feature now enables riders to list their ‘top ten’ calls by the last ones made or favorites list and is another added convenience of the advanced setup. The Turn-by-Turn+ empowers the rider to add extra customization to their navigation details on the go and from the bike’s TFT menu without having to stop and fish around for their mobile device. 

Sportier graphics and more dynamic looks (the plastics are color injected and using in-mold decals where possible for extra resistance, as seen on the KTM offroad bikes) comes with other, practical additions such as the new aluminum engine and tank protector. Other additions include a handlebar switch with hazard warning, different tires for offroad emphasis thanks to PIRELLI SCORPION STRs and LED indicators for the US market. 
Kitting out the KTM 890 ADVENTURE is a breeze with KTM PowerParts; from extra protective components, luggage racks and units, GPS and smartphone brackets, heated grips, different seats, and headlight kits are just some of the optional additions. 

2023 KTM 890 ADVENTURE Highlights: 
// Upgraded ergonomics and bodywork for more protective and comfortable riding 
// Low weight, proven race-derived chassis for perfect performance yet practical compromise 
// Revised WP Suspension settings and adjusters for more response and travel ‘glide’ experience 
// Optimized travel ‘friendliness’ with better TFT menus, App options, reworked Ride Modes, higher screen and more versatile and comfy 2-piece seat 
// More Offroad orientated tires with PIRELLI SCORPION STRs 
// Two fresh color options and new racier graphics set 

The KTM 890 ADVENTURE is available to order now through any KTM Authorized dealer and will be ready for the road from December. 

Race day!
After yesterday’s stop due to the weather conditions that made the track impracticable, work started at sunrise to restore optimal conditions for the race. A long and careful work of the track team to ensure safety standards and optimal conditions for the show.So, finally begins the race day that closes the 100Km of Champions, with the warmup in preparation for the race at 14:30. In the box you immediately feel a great desire to get on the track: the day off increases the expectation of the riders and the enthusiasm of the fans who joined the Motor ranch thanks also to the beautiful sunny day. Piadina, sandwiches, “vin Brûlé and chestnuts, loud music, fun and entertainment.The race starts with the riders of the "yellow" group and the rest is news: competition at the highest level, and after the first two run it is already clear the pairs who will compete until the last lap for the final victory.it is a two-way battle between the Rossi/Marini and Bartolini/Baldassarri couples, who in the end wins the eighth edition of the 100Km of champions. The final order of arrival is as follows: Bartolini/Baldassarri, Rossi/Marini, Vietti/Antonelli.

Valentino's comment:
“We knew that Elia and Balda were very fast and we fought from the beginning of the race. However, we finished second: it was a great weekend, and the race becomes more and more competitive every year. The best way to end the season."

It’s evening, and time to dismantle everything. Great satisfaction for an event that has once again proved to be an unmissable appointment for many.
Is it already time to think about the next edition?

KTM introduces new decals and color updates across the 2023 STREET range, allowing riders to find a machine that matches their true READY TO RACE colors.

KTM roars into the new year with a fast-as-ever brace of STREET motorcycles, covering the full spectrum of road-going machines catering to all riders and riding types. 

At the entry point, KTM brings the small but mighty KTM 125 DUKE and KTM 390 DUKE Naked machines out to play. These are flanked by the impressive new generation Supersport weapons in KTM RC 125 and KTM RC 390 guises. 

Not to be outdone in the mid-weight class, the KTM 790 DUKE makes a re-appearance, with the KTM 890 DUKE GP bringing extreme attitude, and the KTM 890 DUKE R providing the class muscle. 

For 2023, the range is updated with new premium hues taking their inspiration from the vibrant KTM 1290 SUPER DUKE RR prototype and Grand Prix teams. 

KTM 790 DUKE 
THE ORIGINAL SCALPEL slices back onto the scene as an A2 compatible entry point to the KTM mid-weight range, bringing its razor-sharp handling to the beginner segment. This decision comes off the back of a partnership agreement with Chinese manufacturer, CFMOTO, which sees the 790 cc powerplant continued. This means the 105 hp Naked machine will continue to fill a core gap in the market globally. With a dedicated 95 hp A2 compatible version taking on the streets in Europe. 

KTM RC 125 / KTM RC 390 
Both models in the KTM RC range receive the KTM GP Orange treatment, complete with black exhaust. All 2023 KTM RC models also feature a dark-tinted screen as standard. 

KTM 125 DUKE 
THE SPAWN OF THE BEAST, the KTM 125 DUKE gets a fresh color update, introducing a blue-on-white motif, accented by an orange tailpiece and striking orange wheels. 

KTM 390 DUKE The middle-weight CORNER ROCKET receives two new colorway updates: a vibrant orange and blue/gray option, and stealthy black and matt gray hue adding a darker, more sinister shadow to the streets. 

KTM 890 DUKE GP
The KTM 890 DUKE GP introduces more black to the fray, with an eye-catching black-on-white colorway, set off by a striking orange subframe and orange wheels. 

KTM 2023 Street models will begin shipping in November 2022. For more news about the 2023 KTM model range, visit ktm.com or your nearest authorized KTM dealer. 

The rider of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team talks freewheeling about the first year in MotoGP of the Team, Ducati and the championship that has just ended

Tavullia (Italy), November 23rd 2022 – “2022 marks a turning point in the history of MotoGP: we have never had so many riders at this extraordinary level and so close each other” – Luca Marini summarises his whole 2022 in this pill. A significant year for the rider of the Mooney VR46 Racing Team, in his second season in the Top class on the Ducati Desmosedici GP, which saw him compete in a new Team built around him and which only made his MotoGP debut last March.
   
Challenging months, but always ended with a plus sign and an inexorable and constant growth, which led him to be among the strongest riders in the second half of the championship up to the Valencia GP. 12th place in the overall standings with 120 points, twice really close to the podium in P4 in Austria and at Misano, for a total of 19 races completed (only one retirement at the Malaysian GP due to a technical problem immediately after the start) and 10 placings in the Top10.

My 2022

“The second half of the Championship, in terms of results, was incredible. I am really positive for 2023 because this season we have learned, we have grown and for next year we must aim high, for victory".

“Would I have signed for these results at the start of the season? I would say no, instead for something more. I knew I could do well, I knew I could be competitive, even without signing."

A couple of times so close to the podium 

“Many times I was close to the podium, sometimes it seemed really within reach. What went wrong? There are only three places on the podium! There's no real reason to explain it, we've often been among the fastest on the track, but it's not easy to be one of those three at the end of the race. At least it's not obvious, not take for granted. Sometimes we lacked a bit of luck, other times we lost something in qualifying and we started from the back of the grid".  The turning point

“Something changed between Le Mans and Mugello. There we found an excellent base in terms of settings which we then exploited during the rest of the season. Immediately after the GP in Jerez we had a day of testing and, for the first time since the winter tests, we were able to work on all the aspects that we don't have time to deal with during the race weekend, considering the timing of the sessions". 

The new Team

“If we think that this group made its debut on the track, as a team in the Top class, just a year ago, we can say that the atmosphere is fantastic, both on and off the track. We bonded a lot, we are often together, we do normal things like having a dinner. Many of my technicians have children and so we often find ourselves talking about everyday life." 

"From a purely technical point of view, after a rather complicated start to the season, we were practically perfect. It is impressive to think that most of the Team members were rookies this year. Everyone had to make sacrifices at the beginning, the one from Moto2 to MotoGP is a demanding leap in terms of workload. We had to get to know the bike, understand the new category and the guys were simply fantastic."The Ducati

“The Ducati is the most competitive and fastest bike on the track. The results say so and the riders too. It's powerful and, in its own way, easy to ride. From the beginning of the season, the step forward made by the Ducati engineers is impressive. In the pre-season tests, the situation was critical, difficult, especially for me who immediately had the 2022 specs. From mid-season onwards, Ducati managed to open a huge gap over the other manufacturers. Congratulations to them for the work done, it paid off and I hope they continue like this. They really won everything in this 2022!”.

The MotoGP Championship

“What can I say, an incredible season in terms of riders and bikes. For those who have been spectators, a real show with hard-fought races. 2022 marks a turning point in the history of MotoGP: we have never had so many riders at this extraordinary level and so close each other".

Honda’s A2­compatible mini­adventurer receives major performance­ focussed improvements led by Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF­ BP) USD forks, dual disc front brakes and radial­mount calipers. Handling is further improved by the new swingarm, which is lighter with more lateral flex. The rear shock has new settings to complement the new forks. A redesigned front wheel and lighter radiator save weight and new fuel injection settings improve engine character. More powerful headlight LEDs and front indicator position lights offer greater visibility.

The CB500X – originally launched in 2013 alongside the naked CB500F and fully­faired CBR500R – brings crossover adventure style to Honda’s fun­focussed twin­cylinder ‘light middleweight’ trio. It is a motorcycle that, without fanfare, quietly gets on with the job of being supremely competent and adaptable for a wide variety of owners.The CB500X’s usefulness is down to a straightforward equation – a perky, well­regarded twin­cylinder engine which produces real torque and drive from low rpm, and revs hard up top – plus a chassis that gives a supremely comfortable ride both around town and out on the open highway, all wrapped up in distinctive adventure styling.

It slips between the role of short­hop commuter to weekend tourer effortlessly. Long travel suspension irons out irregular road surfaces, wide handlebars provide leverage and the upright riding position offers both comfort and a wide field of view for the rider. In other words, the CB500X is an all­rounder in every sense of the term.

In 2016, a first upgrade saw the CB500X receive a larger fuel tank, more wind protection and a taller screen. It also gained LED lighting, spring preload­adjustable front forks and adjustable brake lever. Its 2019 evolution delivered more sophisticated adventure style, more engine performance and a number of chassis upgrades, ensuring that while the CB500X remained confident in its wide­ranging abilities, its ‘X’ factor was well and truly amplified. It gained EURO5 compliance in 2020.Having proved its popularity over nearly a decade, for 2022 year model it receives high­ quality front suspension in the form of Showa 41mm SFF­BP USD forks, plus dual front discs, lightweight swingarm, redesigned front wheel and other detail updates including a striking new colour and bold new graphics

Chassis & Styling

41mm Showa Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF­BP) USD forks

New dual 296mm discs matched to Nissin two­piston calipers

New lightweight front wheel and swingarm

Revised headlight LEDs from improved high/low beam plus position lights

Light, strong and unchanged for the 2022-year model, the CB500X’s 35mm diameter steel diamond­tube mainframe has a tuned degree of yield that gives plenty of feedback to the rider as road surfaces change. The shape and position of the engine mounts, plus the frame’s rigidity balance, also reduce vibration.Immediately obvious is a brand­new front end set­up. With the aim to heighten all­round handling performance the 41mm telescopic forks of the previous design have been replaced by spring preload­adjustable Showa 41mm Separate Function Fork Big Piston (SFF­BP) USD forks with 135mm axle travel (150mm cushion stroke), clamped by new top and bottom yokes. By dividing the functions – Big Piston pressure separation damper in one leg, spring mechanism in the other – reaction and ride quality are both improved.

The single­tube rear shock absorber (as found on larger capacity sports bikes) with its large­diameter piston and 135mm axle travel (60mm cushion stroke) ensures excellent response and temperature management; it features 5­stage preload adjustment with newly optimised spring rate and damping settings.Handling is further improved by the redesigned, lighter swingarm. Now constructed from 2mm steel (rather than 2.3mm), it employs a hollow cross member and is stiffer rotationally, and also more flexible laterally to improve handling. A crisply redesigned chain guard completes the new look.In line with the dynamic improvements to the chassis and suspension, the braking performance has also been improved. The single 310mm wave­pattern disc and two­ piston caliper front brake of the previous design has been replaced by dual 296mm wave­ pattern discs and axial mounted Nissin two­piston calipers. The introduction of the smaller discs not only keeps any additional weight gain to a minimum, but also reduces the required pressure on the lever when braking.

The redesigned 19­inch cast aluminium front wheel – lighter thanks to thinner spokes – reduces unsprung weight to aid turning ability. It’s crowned by a tough new mudguard design and heads a 17­inch rear wheel; trail­pattern tyres are sized 110/80­R19 front and 160/60­R17 rear. Weight bias has also been adjusted. with front/rear bias percentage of 48.7/51.3 compared to the previous 48/52. Kerb weight is 199kg. Wheelbase remains 1,445mm with rake and trail of 27.5°/108mm.

The CB500X wears an aggressive, ‘ready for the wild’ adventure style, with the long radiator shrouds and fairing giving a strong three­dimensional texture front to rear, linked by interlocking side covers and fuel tank. But this is a bike as much about function as form; high­pressure air flowing around the fairing and screen (with two available height settings – 1445mm and 1410mm) is managed to improve wind protection for the rider at highway speeds. The sharply­chiselled headlight is now even more piercing with extra­powerful LEDs, plus there’s added visibility from front indicator position lights.

A slim seat profile allows for free movement around the machine and aids easy ground reach. And to help manoeuvrability the steering angle is 38° from centred to full lock.

Gunmetal grey tapered steel handlebar elevate control further still. Seat height is 830mm and the upright riding position is very accommodating, while providing excellent visibility. Overall dimensions are 2155mm x 830mm x 1410mm, with 180mm ground clearance.

LCD instruments – set in a multi­surfaced and textured surround – feature a Gear Position and Shift Up indicator; this is set to a default 8,750rpm but can be adjusted in 250rpm increments between 5­8,750rpm.

LCD instruments – set in a multi­surfaced and textured surround – feature a Gear Position and Shift Up indicator; this is set to a default 8,750rpm but can be adjusted in 250rpm increments between 5­8,750rpm.

The recommended retail price for the new CB500X is R119 999 including VAT

The start lights had barely gone out when the race to own a 2023 KTM RC 8C was over, taking a mere 2 minutes and 38 seconds for all 200 Krämer-built KTM RC 8C track machines to sell out.

Each one of the 200 ultra-exclusive 2023 KTM RC 8C track machines has sold out in an astonishing 2 minutes and 38 seconds. As with previous years, KTM used its digital sales platform to offer buyers a direct means to secure their bike as soon as sales opened.

Prospective owners were directed to the digital sales platform, where they could register their interest in the KTM RC 8C by way of paying a deposit. 30 of those buyers also opted to take delivery of their machines at an equally exclusive handover event next spring in Valencia, Spain. 

Co-engineered in close partnership with Krämer Motorcycles, the KTM RC 8C is built using high-end, high-performance racing componentry with an enhanced LC8c production engine for easier maintenance and parts availability. The end result is a 100% track-based motorcycle capable of churning out the highest levels of performance and handling, without needing overly sophisticated electronics or unobtainable tools in the pits. 

Being limited to only 200 units, KTM has created an online waiting list awarding interested buyers another opportunity in event of a cancellation.