The 2025 KTM 300 EXC HARDENDURO draws inspiration from races bearing its name and stands as a testament to conquering the toughest enduro competitions worldwide.
Since its launch in 2024, the KTM 300 EXC HARDENDURO has become the premier model in the KTM Enduro lineup, achieving the top position in the 2025 range and available directly from dealerships.
Having already clinched victories in the first two rounds of the 2024 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship and achieved three consecutive wins at the Red Bull Erzbergrodeo with Manuel Lettenbichler at the helm, the KTM 300 EXC stands as a formidable competitor. Through his and other pro-racer feedback, the 2025 KTM 300 EXC HARDENDURO is engineered to provide the ultimate READY TO RACE Enduro package.
The new standout technical feature of the 48 mm WP XACT closed-cartridge spring fork on the 2025 KTM 300 EXC HARDENDURO is the innovative adjustment of the base valve preload, which mirrors the design of our high-end aftermarket pro components. Adjusting the spring preload on the base valve significantly impacts and offers a broader range of adjustments.
The base valve preload adjusters enable seamless, on-the-fly adjustments by hand, with a total travel distance of 4 mm—a minor change that produces substantial effects.
For the rider, this translates to quick and effortless fork setup modifications: increasing preload for improved stability on fast enduro tracks or decreasing it for enhanced comfort in technical riverbeds. This adjustment impacts almost the entire stroke of the fork, and now it translates to full adjustable suspension, both front and rear.
Additionally, upgrades have been made to the rear shock settings, chain glider, and fuel tank roll.
However, as its nameplate suggests, the HARDENDURO is built to tackle the toughest terrain, featuring a collection of select and purposeful options over the standard KTM 300 EXC.
These include various protection parts, along with several signature HARDENDEURO-specific parts, such as;
NEW BLACK AND ORANGE, HARDENDURO GRAPHICS
ORANGE FRAME - BLACK FACTORY RACING SEAT
MAP-SELECT SWITCH
ORANGE FACTORY FRAME PROTECTOR SET
FACTORY WHEEL SET COMPRISED OF BLACK D.I.D RIMS, BLACK SPOKES, ORANGE HUBS, ORANGE NIPPLES
METZELER 6 DAYS EXTREME TIRES
WRAP-AROUND HANDGUARD KIT
RADIATOR FAN
BLACK ANODIZED CNC MACHINED TRIPLE CLAMPS
WP XACT CLOSED CARTRIDGE FRONT FORK FEATURING NEW BASE VALVE PRELOAD ADJUSTERS
SKID PLATE
FLOATING FRONT BRAKE DISC
FRONT BRAKE DISC GUARD
SOLID REAR BRAKE DISC
ORANGE REAR BRAKE DISC GUARD
ORANGE SUPERSPROX STEALTH REAR SPROCKET
ORANGE OIL PLUG
CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER PROTECTION
PULL STRAPS
Set to roll off the Mattighofen production line, the new 2025 KTM 300 EXC HARDENDURO will be available at authorized KTM dealers from September onwards. For more information, visit KTM.com
NEXT GENERATION SHIFT TECHNOLOGY BRINGS NEW LEVELS OF ENGAGEMENT TO MOTORCYCLING
A NEW DIMENSION OF SPORTS RIDING
Yamaha has long been at the forefront of motorcycle innovation. Each step in the company’s technological development seeks to offer a more immersive riding experience which is even more gratifying for the rider.
This approach is inspired by Yamaha’s Jin-Ki Kanno philosophy, which emphasises the seductive enjoyment of a rider truly feeling in symbiosis with their machine.
The new Yamaha Automated Manual Transmission (Y-AMT) is set to take that feeling further, marking the start of a new era for Yamaha by offering an advanced gear shifting technology that introduces a new dimension to sports riding.
Y-AMT allows riders to fully focus on enjoying the sports performance offered by their motorcycle, by delivering consistently linear shifts to create the most engaging riding experience with the choice of a slick, finger operated manual shift or a two-mode fully automatic transmission.
FAST AND PRECISE SHIFTS AT THE TOUCH OF A BUTTON
With a closer and more refined connection to the brain than the feet, the hands are one of the most tactile and powerful tools the human body has.
Shifting by hand alone, as opposed to a foot-and-hand combination, is not only quicker but requires less thinking time, allowing the rider to hyper-focus on throttle and brake application, lean angle, body position and tyre grip levels to intensify the ride. It is for this reason that on Y-AMT models the shifting pedal will not be installed. This means the rider does not have to move their left foot from the footpeg, allowing them to instead focus on their body position and weight distribution through the pegs in order to enhance the control of their motorcycle, especially in cornering.
The Y-AMT system allows for the shifting characteristics of the machine to be adjusted to meet the rider’s preference and different road conditions, with a choice of a finger-operated manual shift, ‘MT’ or the fully automatic ‘AT’.
Using manual transmission (MT), fast and precise gear shifts take just one touch of a button without manually operating a clutch lever. Shifts are controlled with the index finger and thumb, via two see-saw shifting levers – a plus lever for upshifts and a minus lever for downshifts. For greater control in sportier riding, the plus lever can also be pulled to shift up and pushed to shift down with the index finger alone, offering greater freedom, as there is no need to remove the thumb from the handlebars. The size, position and stroke of the lever have been designed to be ideal while wearing gloves, meaning only a minimal amount of finger movement is required to perform shifts.
The clutch actuation is highly progressive, providing the rider with completely natural operation at all speeds. Maximising the power characteristics of Yamaha’s crossplane-concept engine designs and sportiest ride modes, MT has been developed to amplify the fun of sports riding. And with the speed and precision of each shift more consistent than when using even the latest quickshifter, the excitement and adrenaline of the fast, slick gear changes in the sportiest of riding conditions is even more thrilling for the rider.
Using the fully automatic transmission (AT), riders can choose between two programmes to suit different riding scenarios – easily switchable at any time via the press of a dedicated thumb operated ‘mode’ button.
Those looking for a spirited ride on the open road can opt for ‘D+’, which offers a sporty gear change by shifting later in the rev range to maintain the thrill of the ride while still offering the benefits of a fully automatic transmission.
Riders commuting or putting in long distances on the motorways can opt for ‘D’ mode, which delivers a softer gear shift experience, while maintaining a low rpm, to maximise rider confidence during low speed, urban riding and manoeuvrability.
While in AT, the rider can also choose to shift manually at any time by simply using the see-saw shift levers.
In all cases, Y-AMT delivers consistently linear shifts, allowing riders to focus on their body position, cornering, braking and acceleration, whether riding in the city or on the open road.
RESEARCH DRIVEN NEW TECHNOLOGIES
Yamaha has previously been at the forefront of automatic shifting on motorcycles, developing the YCC-S (Yamaha Chip Controlled Shift) system for the FJR1300 sports tourer almost two decades ago. YCC-S featured an automatic hydraulic clutch actuation system which allowed the rider to change gear manually using a finger operated gear lever.
In many ways, YCC-S was ahead of its time, and now as a result of Yamaha’s technological development, Y-AMT is set to change the face of sports riding.
The Y-AMT system is the most sporting solution in the two wheeled sector, providing an innovative alternative for the next generation of motorcyclists who crave the exhilaration and performance of a manual gearbox, while gaining the convenience of a fully automatic transmission.
Unlike the hydraulically actuated YCC-S system, Y-AMT utilises two electric actuators to take on the functions traditionally carried out by the rider’s left hand and foot. The system weighs in at only 2.8 kg and has been designed to allow for a slim and lightweight installation, ensuring Yamaha’s famed compact chassis design philosophy is intact with the engine no wider, retaining the light feeling of a conventional motorcycle and preserving the machine’s handling or performance.
Working in conjunction with Yamaha’s ‘ride-by-wire’ throttle control system (YCC-T), switchable ride modes and cruise control functions, a Y-AMT equipped motorcycle can be configured for all kinds of riding.
Where previous similar transmissions for motorcycles have typically been aimed at touring applications, Y-AMT has been developed to enhance the purity of sports riding, allowing the rider to better focus on the more thrilling aspects of the ride.
BORN FROM JIN-KI KANNO
Y-AMT perfectly exemplifies the rider-machine relationship emphasised by Yamaha’s Jin-Ki Kanno philosophy, providing a fun and new riding experience whatever the riding conditions, road or purpose of the journey.
Y-AMT equipped motorcycles will mark a shift in the perception of how motorcycles are ridden, resulting in an even more engaged riding experience and delivering Kando, a Japanese word expressing the feeling of deep satisfaction and intense excitement experienced when encountering a product of exceptional value, quality and performance.
Yamaha will begin introducing Y-AMT to a range of models in the near future, bringing this innovation to sport riding, touring and commuting.
TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS
Manual shifting via finger-operated ‘see-saw’ switch
Two automatic shift modes: D+ (sportier gear change) and D
Automated clutch and gear shift actuated by electric motor
WP Suspension is all about going the extra mile. For riders who want to venture off the beaten path and eagerly anticipate discovering new routes, facing fresh challenges, and exploring the unknown.
At WP, we never lack ambition or the drive to enhance our PRO COMPONENTS. We meticulously examine every detail that can improve your riding experience, safety, and comfort, while also ensuring you can tackle more demanding obstacles and roads with greater confidence.
That's why we're excited to introduce the XPLOR PRO 7548 Fork and XPLOR PRO 6746 Shock homologated for street use, fitting in the new Husqvarna Norden 901.
The XPLOR PRO 7548 Fork offers ambitious riders tailor-made maximum performance and uncompromising off-road, the WP CONE VALVE Technology prevents sudden stiffening or loss of damping due to bent shims.
The XPLOR PRO 6746 Shock features PROGRESSIVE DAMPING Technology, which generates a progressive damping characteristic with increased damping performance in the last third of the suspension travel, resulting in reduced weight and maintenance.
The XPLOR PRO 7548 Spring Fork is available in two different lengths with Set NumberA610C155X403220 (Fork length: 942mm, Stroke: 270mm) and 14182S08SET (Fork length: 912mm, Stroke: 240mm).
The XPLOR PRO 6746 Shock is available in two different lengths with Set NumberA610C455X305220 (Shock length: 390mm Stroke: 97,5mm) and 12180S08SET (Shock length: 380mm, Stroke: 87,5mm)
The long versions will need additional parts (Brake hose extensions and longer side stand)*
These PRO COMPONENTS fit on:
Husqvarna: Norden 901 from 2022 Norden 901 Expedition from 2023
KTM: 790 Adventure, 790 Adventure R from 2018 890 Adventure, 890 Adventure R from 2022
Munich. When a total of 22 national teams - including six women's and 16 men's teams - with a total of 60 riders compete for the coveted trophy at the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 Namibia from 15 to 20 September 2024, they will be able to rely on a superior workhorse as they cross Namibia: the BMW R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike.
The R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike has been developed exclusively for this competition, which has been held on the basis of the R 1300 GS since 2008 and is equipped for all eventualities thanks to special accessories. The large GS with its powerful boxer engine is fitted with a handlebar riser, engine protection bar, underride and frame guard, adjustable gear and brake levers, GS Vario rider footrests, enduro hand levers, headlight protection guard and white handguard extensions. The coarse-tread off-road tyres on the black cross-spoke wheels and the single seat bench are designed to cope with the sometimes difficult terrain of the BMW Motorrad International GS Trophy 2024 Namibia.
With the exception of a few details, the R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike can be configured on the basis of the R 1300 GS Trophy. Although the BMW Motorrad Competition Bike is not available for sale in exactly this form, it is based on the R 1300 GS Trophy model variant, with the exception of a few details such as the stickers, the large underride guard and the gearshift lever. The basic Racing Blue metallic colour says it all: with its red and white stripes and lettering, combined with the matt white metallic painted rear frame, the R 1300 GS Trophy literally whets the appetite for sporty off-road riding - just as the 22 teams will experience on their R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bikes in September.
In the spirit of high off-road expertise, the Trophy is equipped ex works with radiator guards to protect against damage, for example from stone chipping. The robust cross-spoke wheels are also part of the off-road equipment. They come with black rims as standard and are also available in gold as an ex-works option.
The BMW F 900 GS Trophy Marshal Bike - the sporty, off-road BMW GS for the middle range as the vehicle for the GS Trophy Marshal Team. The GS Trophy Marshals, who will guide the participants safely through Namibia's challenging terrain, can also rely on a high level of off-road expertise. Based on the F 900 GS, the F 900 GS Trophy Marshal Bike is BMW Motorrad's premium offering in the mid-range touring enduro segment.
With a full 77 kW of power and a significantly wider range of uses thanks to greatly enhanced off-road qualities and a drastic weight reduction of 14 kg compared to its predecessor, the sporty representative of the GS models in the F Series - like the R 1300 GS Trophy Competition Bike - also feels at home in Namibia.
The 2025 KTM EXC range introduces a series of refinements and key touches to the Enduro lineup, bringing over thirty years of race-bred performance, cutting-edge technology, and a fan favorite to the trails.
With over three decades at the sharp end of World Enduro Championships – and countless regional titles – the 2025 KTM EXC lineup is set to maintain its domination of enduro competition.
Following 2024s significant 95% overhaul, the 2025 range continues to use revolutionary closed-cartridge suspension, refined frame and bodywork, and industry-defining technology.
The most notable change is the ‘orange’ makeover. Here, the previous 1990s-inspired purple highlights are replaced by a timeless silver-gray graphic over predominantly orange bodywork and a black frame. The seat remains orange, featuring a high-grip seat cover and textured grip strips, which can also be found on the frame protectors, tank shrouds, and bar pad.
At the rear, handling is further refined, thanks to new settings for the WP XPLOR PDS shock, resulting in an improved pressure balance and a lower risk of cavitation. The swingarm also gets an update, with a machined unit to improve the durability of the chain glider.
Upfront, a new and updated fuel tank roll now secures the tank more firmly in place while keeping the frame protected against scrubbing. At the handlebars, a new on/off switch gear is carried over from the KTM SX range.
The biggest news of 2025 is the reintroduction of a dedicated 125 cc KTM Enduro model to the lineup. After a decade of absence (2016 was the last EU model to be exact) the 2025 KTM 125 XC-W has returned to reclaim its dominance in the 125 cc Junior Enduro category.
The KTM 125 XC-W, is designed specifically for competition purposes. It stands out from other KTM 2-stroke models with several distinct features. It utilizes the engine of the 2025 KTM 125 SX, but it incorporates Enduro Transmission and Stator components from the KTM 150 EXC. Unlike other models in the KTM 2-stroke Enduro range., the KTM 125 XC-W doesn't include an extra oil tank between the fuel tank and steering head, making it the sole pre-mix model in this regard. Additionally, it comes standard with a map select switch. All other main components are identical to the KTM EXC range.
All models in the range keep the hydro-formed, laser-cut, and robot-welded frame, which is renowned for its flex parameters, rider feedback, and straight-line stability, with a 48 mm WP XACT Closed Cartridge spring fork and WP XPLORE PDS taking care of suspension duties.
The 2025 KTM EXC 2-stroke range will consist of the KTM 125 XC-W, KTM 150 EXC, KTM 250 EXC, and KTM 300 EXC. The 4-stroke range remains unchanged, with the dirt ripping KTM 250 EXC-F, KTM 350 EXC-F, KTM 450 EXC-F, and KTM 500 EXC-F filling the ranks.
The 2025 KTM EXC range is the culmination of years of R&D fighting at the sharp end of Enduro competition worldwide. With dynamic race-bred performance, focused ergonomics, and leading technology, the 2025 KTM Enduro range is primed and ready to challenge any terrain and redefine the limit.
As always, a dedicated collection of KTM PowerWear and KTM PowerParts are designed to provide the highest levels of performance and protection, with collections ready to meet the needs of hobby riders and pro racers alike.
The new 2025 KTM EXC range will be rolling off the Austrian production line in June and available at authorized KTM dealers from July. For more information, visit KTM.com.
CFMOTO is excited to announce the launch of our first-ever electric youth dirt bikes, the CX-2E and CX-5E. Expanding our legacy from combustion engine motorcycles to the innovative electric market, these new models are designed to provide young riders with a safe, fun, and environmentally friendly riding experience.
Battery
Both the CX-2E and CX-5E are equipped with a 48V24Ah 1152Wh lithium-ion battery, ensuring a long-range riding experience. The CX-2E offers a run range of approximately 78 kilometers under ideal conditions, while the CX-5E provides a range of 60 kilometers. These batteries are protected to the level of IP66, ensuring durability and safety. Additionally, the batteries are swappable with a simple quick-release mechanism, making it easy to replace and continue the fun without lengthy downtime.
Technology
Our pioneering technology integrates the e-motor and proprietary controller into a single, space-efficient unit. This innovative design includes the use of high thermal conductivity glue to maintain the motor's internal temperature within the optimal range for efficient operation. Riders can monitor battery consumption, charge levels, and selected gear settings from a single, convenient interface. The ergonomic design of the handlebars, seats, and footrests promotes a comfortable and natural riding posture, tested and approved by junior riders from various countries.
Engine
The CX-2E features a 48V-BLDC e-motor with a maximum power output of 1.2kW and 6.4Nm of torque, delivering smooth and controllable power for young riders aged 4-7 years. The bike can accelerate from 0 to 20 km/h in just 2.6 seconds, with a top speed of 24 km/h.
The CX-5E, designed for riders aged 8-12 years, boasts a more powerful 48V-BLDC e-motor with a maximum output of 1.5kW and 7Nm of torque. This model accelerates from 0 to 20 km/h in 2.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 44 km/h (27 mph). Both models offer three drive modes, allowing parents to adjust speed settings to match their child's skill level.
Honda Motor Southern Africa is pleased to announce the launch of the Honda Road Sync app, a mobile application designed to enhance the riding experience for motorcyclists.
This innovative app is set to revolutionize how riders interact with their motorcycles, providing seamless connectivity, enhanced safety, and unprecedented convenience.
The Honda RoadSync app exemplifies Honda's dedication to integrating cutting-edge technology with the exhilaration of motorcycle riding. Tailored for Honda's latest models namely the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp and Honda CB750 Hornet, the app allows riders to manage essential smartphone functions without compromising safety.
The Honda RoadSync app is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and is available for download from the respective app stores. Riders can easily connect their smartphones to their motorcycles via Bluetooth, ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience.
The new RoadSync App interacts with Honda's Smartphone Voice Control System, a standard feature on both the 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp and Honda CB750 Hornet models. The system allows the rider to control their smartphone via Bluetooth® connectivity.
Riders can pair the Honda RoadSync app seamlessly with a smartphone.
The download of the "Honda RoadSync app", the pairing of the motorcycle with a smartphone and the use of a Bluetooth® headset attached to the helmet (with audio input) allows the rider to:
Easily navigate to preferred places and local points of interest
Make and receive phone calls
Receive and reply to SMS text messages
Listen to music via their favorite streaming app
Receive up-to-date local weather information and when using the navigation, checking weather data of the destination
All functions of the app are operated by a combination of voice commands and the switch unit on the left side of the handlebars. This allows the rider to store his smartphone safely while in use.
Features available in the app include:
Navigation
Google Maps forms the basis for the navigation of the "Honda RoadSync App". The directions are transmitted to the driver via voice output. Five preset favorite places can be saved. In addition, it is possible to, set a target by voice command.
Calls
Five frequently used contacts can be saved, which can be selected by voice search. In the case of incoming calls, the system transmits the name of the caller to the driver via narrator.
Messages
There are five standard quick messages stored that can be converted to personalized messages. The driver can select a contact by voice search and then send them an SMS message by voice input. Incoming messages are transmitted to the driver via voice over. Supported messenger apps include WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.
Music
The driver can select a favorite music app (Google Play Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, etc.) in the settings of the Honda RoadSync App before they set off on the ride.
Weather
Local weather data can be checked for the next hour, the next 3 hours or the next 5 hours. When using navigation, a detailed prediction for the destination is also available.
The integration of the RoadSync app reinforces Honda’s commitment to road safety.
The Honda RoadSync app, developed by Honda, will be phased in across South Africa, starting in June 2024.
*Honda reserves the right to further develop its technology in the future, to respond to the changing needs of customers and evolving models.
More details about and the Honda RoadSync App and the Honda Smartphone Voice Control. visit www.honda.co.za/motorcycles
Red Bull KTM Factory Racing will bring MotoGP starlet and two-time World Champion Pedro Acosta back into orange for 2025. A new multi-year deal with the 20-year-old Grand Prix sensation sees #31 equipped with a KTM RC16 for his fifth season at the highest level and second in MotoGP.
The Spaniard has been an outstanding sight in 2024 and his first attempt at the premier class. Acosta has already totalled two podium finishes to-date – one of the youngest riders in the sport to stand on the rostrum as well as the youngest to grab back-to-back silverware – and is roaming the fringes of the top five in the world championship standings.
Acosta’s climb in Grand Prix has been rapid and emphatic. He won the 2020 Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup in his second season as part of the proven feeder series. Pedro, signed to Aki Ajo’s Red Bull KTM Ajo team, then grabbed a podium result on his Moto3™ debut in Qatar 2021 and clinched his maiden victory at the same venue the following weekend. Acosta’s one term in the category ended with world championship success and he vaulted immediately into Moto2™ for 2022; a class he also ruled by the end of 2023.
Pedro’s character, natural ability and mature attitude means he has been an instant MotoGP hit, and the pace and results have flowed in his first campaign with RC16 technology. The new contract draws the popular racer into the Red Bull KTM structure once more and for a term that will stretch beyond 2025.
Pedro, before we get to MotoGP and the future, tell us a bit about the past and when did the story really begin with KTM?
It was a dream in 2020 when I signed my first contract with KTM to go to Moto3. It wasn’t the easiest time for me and they saved my career, let’s say, and it was so great to make that step to the factory team and come all this way together. I remember in 2019 and the selection event for Rookies; it felt like a last chance for me, and KTM and Red Bull gave me an opportunity. It is one of the best memories I have.
Can you try to explain the emotions of a first MotoGP season where you have left all expectations behind?
It was easy to feel the expectations; from the media, the sponsors, everyone involved…but then the people around me kept saying it was a season of no pressure. Still, it has not been easy to go into a first MotoGP season with the results that we’ve had until now. We are on our way.
In 2025 you will be back in orange. What do you like about the brand, how does it give you energy and why decide your future lies with KTM in MotoGP?
It was important to me to keep pushing with KTM, and to see the whole project and the story until now and how we have grown in racing. So, it’s nice to carry on for the future: getting in orange is like coming back home. The way they are pushing and improving in the last couple of years is what is also pushing me to stay for the next couple of years.
Francesco Guidotti, Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team Manager: “In racing you can never stand still or slow down and Pedro’s story is a rare one. We can almost call him a generational talent because of what he has achieved so far. It’s clear he is one of the hottest names in MotoGP now and for 2025 it will be interesting to see and work with him in a closer way. The standard is super-high in this sport now for many things: the bikes, the tires, the equipment and the teams. So, to standout so quickly means something quite special. I think we also have to give credit to his current team in the pitbox next door for giving Pedro the platform to show what he can do.”
Pit Beirer, KTM Motorsports Director: “It gives us great pleasure to announce this news. We are as excited as everyone else when Pedro shows his speed and personality on the track, and it looks like this boy is winning a lot of new fans all around the globe. From the first days in the Red Bull MotoGP Rookies Cup we could see he was a special rider. Somebody that does things differently, and with the strongest mentality to make his own way. It makes him unique in this MotoGP world. It gives us a lot of energy and power to make this journey with him through our teams and our motorcycles. I also want to give a mention to our KTM GP Academy and the work of people like Aki Ajo with Pedro. It is super-cool that we will be together for a few more years. He has a very big future in MotoGP and we really look forward to the next chapter of his career with us.”
The Yamaha Racing Heritage Club is delighted to announce its schedule for 2024, which includes the Sunday Ride Classic, Dijon Motorcycle Legends Cup, Veterans Motocross des Nations, and the Yamaha Racing Experience at Jerez. Stars from the past and present, including Valentino Rossi, Giacomo Agostini, Jonathan Rea, Alessio Chiodi, Johnny Cecotto and Christian Sarron, alongside their iconic race bikes are all set to celebrate a historic year for the manufacturer with several important racing milestones to commemorate.
Launched at EICMA in 2021, the Yamaha Racing Heritage Club (YRHC) was designed to protect, celebrate, and share Yamaha’s rich racing history across all disciplines with younger generations.
The YRHC gives owners the opportunity to register their bikes on the YRHC database and become official members, bringing together owners of iconic Yamaha racing machinery from around the globe, allowing them to share their knowledge and experience with their fellow collectors and offering them the chance to participate in a number of events throughout the year.
The YRHC is not only about machinery; it also aims to reunite the riders who helped write large Yamaha’s name in the history books with the machines on which they achieved their greatest successes. Plus, by bringing together these legendary riders and their iconic bikes alongside Yamaha’s current roster of racing talent, it allows a whole new generation of fans to experience first-hand the passion, determination, and technology that defined bygone eras.
During its inaugural year in 2022, the YRHC focused on celebrating Yamaha’s road racing success by attending events such as the ASI Motoshow in Italy, the Sachsenring Classic in Germany, and the CRMC Classic Motorcycle Festival in England as well as documenting the emotional reunion of three-time 500cc World Champion Wayne Rainey and his title-winning 1992 YZR500 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
In 2023, in addition to continuing to be present at some of the biggest classic events in Europe and making its debut at the Yamaha Racing Experience in Mugello, the YRHC expanded its program by attending events dedicated to celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the YZ range of Motocross bikes.
In 2024, the YRHC aims to honour several historic anniversaries, including the 60th anniversary of Yamaha’s first-ever World Championship when Phil Read lifted the 250cc title in 1964 on the legendary RD56, the 50th anniversary of 15x World Champion Agostini joining the manufacturer and achieving his first title with the marque, the 40th anniversary of Sarron’s 1984 250cc World Championship, the 25th anniversary of the debut of the YZF-R7, plus the 25th anniversary of the first victory for the YZF-R6 in WorldSSP, and much more.
To commemorate these milestones, Agostini and Sarron will take to the track with the YRHC at the Sunday Ride Classic at Circuit Paul Ricard on the 18th and 19th of May before the duo will be joined by two-time World Champion Johnny Cecotto for the Coupes Moto Legende at the Circuit de Dijon-Prenois on the 24th-26th of May. After the success of 2023, the YRHC will once again play an integral part in the Yamaha Racing Experience (YRE), which this year will be hosted at the Circuito de Jerez - Ángel Nieto on the 3rd- 4th of July.
Heading up this exclusive event is none other than nine-time World Champion Rossi, who will be joined by six-time Superbike World Champion Rea alongside the rest of the current crop of WorldSBK riders, including Andrea Locatelli, Remy Gardner, and Dominique Aegerter, with a number of special guests yet to be announced. Invited YRHC members will not only have the chance to ride the Jerez circuit alongside these modern heroes on classic two-stroke machinery but also enjoy the full Yamaha Racing Experience.
Then to bring the curtain down on an exciting year, the YRHC will return to the Veterans Motocross des Nations (VMXoN) at Foxhills in the UK from the 22nd to 25th of August with three-time World Champion Alessio Chiodi set to be the star of the show once again, alongside a display of historic Yamaha off-road bikes.
Do you own a classic Yamaha race bike? If so, the YHRC is open to owners of bikes from every discipline. From Grand Prix racing, eligible machines are those raced between 1955 and the end of the 500cc two-stroke era in 2003, as well as TZ125 and TZ250 machinery up until 2009.
Registration of bikes from World Superbike and the Endurance World Championship is open to machines raced in any of the production classes from 1985 until 2009, while from the off-road world, the YRHC is open to motocross bikes raced before 1998 and Paris Dakar machines raced in Africa before 2007.
Honda Motor Southern Africa is pleased to announce the launch of the Honda Road Sync app, a mobile application designed to enhance the riding experience for motorcyclists.
