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KTM’s upcoming parallel-twin engine, LC8c, is expected to have improved performance and reliability, according to a new patent application. 

  • New patent application suggest a more powerful LC8c twin. 
  • The power output likely to be around 130hp to 140hp. 

The engine, which was first teased in January, features new designs for every casting from the oil pan to the cam cover. The only parts that have been carried over are the throttle bodies and water pump. The engine is expected to have a capacity of nearly 1,000cc, earning it the “990” designation.

The new patent application provides a glimpse into the engine’s design and reveals that the cylinder-to-head joint is higher than in the current engine. This could result in increased power output of between 130 hp to 140 hp, depending on the state of tune. 

The new LC8c engine will initially be used in the redesigned “990” Duke and has been spotted in a fully faired, road-going sportbike, the RC 990. The RC 990 is expected to be KTM’s first sportbike since the RC8 R superbike was discontinued.

KTM’s MotoGP efforts are also expected to benefit from the new LC8c engine. The introduction of a second GasGas-branded MotoGP team this year could lead to the production model eventually appearing in GasGas guise. 

The engine mounts of the new LC8c engine have been designed to match those of the current engine, allowing it to be easily bolted into existing frames if required.

While some suggest that the 990 is likely to replace the 890, the returning 790 seems to squash that rumour. Also considering KTM is set to introduce the 890 SMT soon, the all-new 990 mil could be a new addition to the brand’s lineup. 

Ducati has announced the start of production of its new Scrambler motorcycle at the Borgo Panigale plant. 

  • Next-generation Ducati Scrambler officially rolls into the production line at the Borgo Panigale factory. 
  • The new Scrambler comes in three modes; Icon, Full Throttle and Nightshift. 

The new bike, which was already showcased in the seventh episode of the Ducati World Premiere 2023, is a complete renovation of the iconic model that maintains the original energy and spirit of the Scrambler family that has made it a worldwide success.

The new Ducati Scrambler features a captivating and modern design that is accessible and safe for everyday use. It is dedicated to those who seek freedom and wish to express their lifestyle through their choices. The production of the first unit was celebrated at the new Finitura e Delibera Estetica building, where CEO Claudio Domenicali christened the bike.

The new Scrambler offers customization possibilities that go beyond the previous model, thanks to the new Icon tank. The cover of the coloured portion can be easily replaced, as can the mudguards, rim tags and headlamp covers. The new model comes in nine colours, including three basic colours and six other options available as an accessory kit.

With a weight reduction of 4 kg, the new Ride-by-Wire and Quick Shift accessory, the Ducati Scrambler offers a brilliant and safe ride. The bike is more modern, digital, and technological thanks to Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control, and the new colour TFT dashboard. All these features maintain the simplicity and authenticity that have always represented essential values for all Ducati Scrambler enthusiasts.

The new Scrambler comes in three models – Icon, Full Throttle, and Nightshift. All models offer a relaxed riding position and low weight, providing enthusiasts of all experience and abilities with great riding pleasure, both in urban journeys and on trips out of town. The Scrambler family has always been a fan favourite, and the new generation is set to continue that legacy.

Yamaha Motor Co Ltd has announced that it has reached an agreement with an aluminum ingot supplier to procure green aluminum, a new type of aluminum refined using renewable energy sources to emit less CO2 in its manufacture.

  • Yamaha to become the first Japanese motorcycle manufacturer to adopt green aluminium. 
  • The new initiative is aligned with the company’s effort to promote sustainability. 

The company has already begun using it as a raw material for parts in Yamaha motorcycles, marking the first time green aluminum has been used in Japanese motorcycles.

Yamaha Motor has been actively promoting the use of recycled aluminum, which now comprises some 80% of the company’s aluminum usage, through the development of its engineering and production technologies and expertise. Green aluminum will be employed for parts that still cannot be manufactured with recycled materials.

As a first step, Yamaha Motor will use green aluminum for certain parts in its large-displacement and off-road competition motorcycles, with plans to gradually expand its usage in other models as available supply volumes allow. The company is committed to switching to 100% sustainable materials by 2050, including adopting more plant-derived resin materials, developing recyclable polypropylene, and adopting green and other recycled materials for its motorcycles manufactured in Japan and overseas.

The introduction of green aluminum represents a significant milestone for Yamaha Motor and its efforts to achieve its environmental goals. The company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint is a positive step towards a more sustainable future for the motorcycle industry.

We are in awe with Flux Motorcycles latest creation, the Primo electric dirt bike that’s not only boast an insane 750Nm of torque but also a list of premium components. 

  • The Primo delivers a whopping 750Nm and 85 peak horsepower. 
  • The electric dirt bike also features a newly built frame by HM Moto. 

The Flux Primo, is setting a new standard for speed and power. Boasting top-of-the-line features such as KYB and Öhlins suspension, the Primo is already making waves in the industry.

But the real standout feature of this incredible machine is its electric motor. Delivering a heart-stopping 85bhp, the Primo is already more powerful than most 450cc internal combustion engine motorcycles. And with 553lb-ft of torque available from zero revs, it has more grunt than a Tesla Model 3.

Not only is the motor water-cooled, but each battery cell also has its own cooling circuit to help reduce voltage drop-off while riding hard. And with an energy recovery system to recoup energy from slowing down, the Primo can go the distance on longer rides.

But that’s not all – the Primo also features a ‘virtual clutch’ system, which is sure to revolutionize the way we ride. Although details are scarce, we imagine it works similarly to the early Electric Motion trials bikes.

With top-spec features such as KYB 48mm fully adjustable forks, an Öhlins TTX full adjustable rear shock, and a frame created by HM Moto, we’re pretty adamant that the Primo will quickly capture people’s attention. 

 

SHOEI has introduced its latest model of full-face helmet, the NXR 2, which is the lightest and most compact ECE 22.06 homologation approved helmet in their lineup.

  • The NXR 2 is the lightest helmet in Shoei’s range. 
  • The new all-rounder helmet meets the latest ECE22.06 standard. 

The NXR 2 has been developed and refined by a team of world-class designers and engineers who utilized their state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility and industry-leading quality assurance practices to push the limits of resources and technologies.

The NXR 2’s aerodynamics have been improved with a compact shell shape featuring an integrated spoiler, strategically-shaped air intake and exhaust vents that streamline the overall profile, and significant reductions in upward lift and forward drag forces. 

The helmet has also been designed with advanced noise reduction technology, including vortex generators on the shield’s sides to reduce wind turbulence and an all-new, airtight window beading that provides a wind and waterproof seal. The NXR 2 provides an incredibly quiet riding experience without blocking the road’s informative sounds.

SHOEI has optimized the helmet’s ventilation system to provide the perfect balance between airflow and silence. The center/forehead vent is equipped with an additional air intake hole for greater airflow, and the upper air intake holes have been enlarged for optimal performance. The NXR 2 features six air intake vents and four exhaust outlets, including a large 3-position lower vent shutter for ease of use with riding gloves.

The NXR 2 also boasts a CWR-F2 shield system that protects from 99% of the sun’s damaging UV rays and is 10% larger than previous models for improved lateral vision. The shield system includes an all-new conveniently located center locking mechanism that evenly distributes shield forces across both base plates, making shield changes quicker and smoother. 

The shield adjuster mechanism provides easier, more precise tuning, and the redesigned base plate gear has an all-new “first position” shield opening feature for advanced venting and defogging. SHOEI’s patented spring-loaded technology ensures a wind and waterproof seal, and an all-new airtight window beading reduces wind and water intrusion. The helmet also features SHOEI’s Emergency Quick Release System (E.Q.R.S.) security system.

The NXR 2 is available in a range of plain and graphic colors, with pricing starting at RM2,400 for plain colors and going up to RM2,980 for the MM93 Collection Rush and MM93 Retro-Ring. 

As confirmed by leaked photos, Honda is set to expand its CB350 range with a Cafe Racer version. 

  • Honda is set to add a cafe racer edition of its current CB350 range. 
  • The CB350 Cafe Racer features a different body parts including a new single-seat. 

The photos, reportedly taken at a dealer event in India, clearly show a CB350 with slightly different components. In this case, the new parts create a classic cafe racer motorcycle. 

Firstly, we can see an entirely different saddle, particularly a single-seat setup with a seat cowl. 

At the front, the CB350 Cafe Racer gets a headlight shroud compared to a more exposed headlamp on the base model. Unfortunately, while a proper cafe racer is equipped with clip-ons, the bike in the picture is fitted with a standard handlebar. 

Powering the Honda CB350 Cafe Racer is likely the same single-cylinder 348cc air-cooled engine that is capable to produce a solid 20.7hp @ 5,500rpm and 30Nm @ 3,000rpm while matted to a 5-speed gearbox.

While we have yet to get further details apart from the leaked photos by RushLane, the CB350 Cafe Racer could make its official debut soon. 

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