In a surprising move, Ducati has unveiled the Panigale-powered Ducati Multistrada V4 RS, a remarkable addition to its adventure bike lineup. The Multistrada V4 RS bears a striking resemblance to the Multistrada Pikes Peak, but the true standout feature lies within its engine.

Gone is the Granturismo V4 (currently found in the Multistrada V4 S and Pikes Peak), and in its place resides another V4, derived from the infamous Desmosedici Stradale unit found in the Panigale V4. Boasting a staggering 180hp and 118Nm this engine upgrade offers an exhilarating and dynamic riding experience.

To ensure comfort in urban traffic conditions, the Multistrada V4 RS’s ECU intelligently deactivates the rear bank of cylinders when the bike is stationary and in neutral, and the engine temperature exceeds 70 degrees. Ducati’s thoughtfulness extends to maintaining rider comfort during everyday rides.

The Multistrada V4 RS features a monocoque aluminum frame identical to the Pikes Peak model, optimizing the steering head angle and trail and wheelbase values for enhanced sports performance. This precision engineering showcases Ducati’s commitment to delivering a thrilling adventure on any terrain.

Equipped with Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 smart suspension, the Multistrada V4 RS ensures a smooth and adaptable ride. The electronically controlled fork and monoshock continually adjust according to riding conditions, and riders can customize the setup further by selecting from the available riding modes: Race, Sport, Touring, and Urban.

Building upon the Multistrada V4 S’s remarkable braking system, the Multistrada V4 RS features a Panigale V4-shared braking system, enhanced with 330mm front discs and Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers. 

Additionally, Panigale V4 pads and a 265mm rear disc with a Brembo floating caliper provide exceptional stopping power. The Bosch-Brembo cornering ABS setup ensures maximum safety while maneuvering through corners.

Ducati hasn’t overlooked rider comfort either. The riding position of the Multistrada V4 RS has been optimized with higher and further back footrests and a rigidly fixed handlebar. The handlebar has been lowered and narrowed, coupled with softer grips, ensuring a comfortable and confident riding experience.

Ducati’s Panigale-powered Multistrada V4 RS is set to redefine the adventure bike segment. With its combination of raw power, cutting-edge technology, and thoughtful design, this motorcycle promises an exciting and exhilarating journey on any road.

GALLERY: 2023 DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS

Chinese motorcycle manufacturer CFMoto is making its mark in the dirt bike industry with the highly anticipated release of its first electric off-road motorcycle, the EVMX. Breaking away from conventional combustion engine models, CFMoto is diving into the electric power arena.

The EVMX was recently revealed in a camouflage-style prototype, featuring an exciting video presentation with renowned FMX star and former professional motocross racer Ronnie Renner, who has been chosen as a brand ambassador for CFMoto Global and CFMoto USA.

While technical and performance details are still under wraps, the absence of a radiator suggests that the EVMX will rely on air cooling for its batteries. The video doesn’t provide a clear view of the chassis material, but CFMoto’s connections with KTM suggest a likely steel frame construction.

CFMoto’s foray into the electric dirt bike market puts it in competition with players like the Stark Varg, a Spanish-built electric dirt bike known for its impressive 80bhp power output. Although CFMoto’s EVMX project is behind Stark Varg in development, the company’s extensive manufacturing capabilities and strategic partnerships with brands like KTM and Yamaha give it a strong position in the market.

This move towards electric motocross further confirms CFMoto’s commitment to sports bikes and competition, as seen in its sponsorship of the PruestelGP team in Moto3 and its involvement in rally raid events, including the Dakar, and the recent announcement of the CFMoto 675SR, indicating a growing interest in road-going sports bikes. CFMoto’s EVMX is set to bring a fresh, electric perspective to the dirt bike scene, offering an exciting alternative to traditional combustion engine models.

When it comes to the term “e-bikes,” different individuals may have varying interpretations. For many, it’s a colloquial abbreviation for “electric bicycles,” which are typically equipped with electric motors designed to provide pedal assistance, rather than entirely replacing human pedal power.

However, within the motorcycle enthusiast community, there has been an ongoing debate over the use of the term “e-bikes” when referring to electric motorcycles, a classification often perceived as incorrect, though not without reason. After all, traditional internal combustion engine-powered motorcycles, often called “bikes” in the UK and other Commonwealth nations, might justify such a nomenclature. It is a perspective that raises a valid point.

This debate took a significant turn with a recent ruling from the Court of Justice of the European Union, definitively addressing the classification of electric bicycles within the European legal framework. In a judgment issued on October 12, 2023, the court declared that electric bicycles do not meet the criteria to be considered “vehicles” under EU law. In contrast, motorcycles are unequivocally classified as vehicles. In essence, e-bikes, as legally defined within the European Union, are distinct from motorcycles.

This judicial milestone arose from a tragic incident that occurred in Belgium in October 2017 when a cyclist, riding an electric bicycle, was involved in a collision with a car and subsequently succumbed to his injuries. Following this fatality, a legal dispute emerged, focusing on the essential matter of compensation. The key point of contention rested on the legal classification of the cyclist’s electric bicycle.

The question at the heart of the legal battle was whether the electric bicycle met the legal definition of a “vehicle.” This classification would entail that it must be insured, akin to other road-bound vehicles. The specific electric bicycle in question featured a motor capable of providing pedal assistance, including a boost function, but this boost feature could only engage when a rider initially applied human muscular effort to set the bicycle in motion.

The implications of this judgment may reverberate through future legal cases within the European Union. However, it remains unclear whether this precedent will influence other regions worldwide. Nonetheless, for those who feel disconcerted when the term “e-bike” is used to describe electric motorcycles, this ruling provides a pertinent fact to remember and keep on hand, alongside your multitude of open browser tabs.

While electric windscreens are not a novelty, Honda’s Gold Wing has been a relatively late adopter of this technology. 

Prior to the introduction of the current Gold Wing model in 2018, the tourer featured a tall, fixed windscreen. To catch up with contemporary trends, the 2018-on Gold Wing introduced an automatic screen adjustment that lowered the windscreen when the bike was turned off, raising it to its previous setting upon resuming operation. 

However, the latest patent application introduces a more sophisticated system.

The height-adjustment mechanism remains similar to the current model, utilising electric actuators to move the windscreen up or down, with controls accessible to the rider. 

Honda has recognised that the ideal windscreen height can vary depending on factors such as speed and weather conditions. As a result, the system incorporates the standard height actuators, but it also incorporates a computer, a microphone, and a set of cameras, all working together to maintain the windscreen in the optimal position at all times.

A microphone, positioned on the rider’s helmet, is part of a broader system enabling phone calls and voice control over various bike systems, including navigation. 

In the context of automatic screen adjustment, the microphone also monitors wind noise, not only for rider comfort but to prevent interference with the voice-recognition system.

As the bike’s speed increases and wind noise exceeds a predetermined threshold, the control unit instructs the windscreen to move upwards, following a pre-programmed pattern of adjustments designed to minimize wind noise and turbulence.

To address potential issues related to the windscreen obstructing the rider’s line of sight, Honda has integrated an additional safety feature. A pair of cameras, one on top of each mirror, continuously monitors the rider and relays images to the computer. 

The computer then analyses the rider’s eye position and height to determine areas where the windscreen’s edge could potentially be distracting. 

The auto-adjustment system ensures the windscreen stops only when it is positioned higher or lower than the rider’s eye-line. Additionally, the computer maintains a database of rider preferences, allowing riders to prioritise visibility or wind protection according to their preferences.

For nearly six decades, the Triumph Thruxton has been a beloved symbol of British motorcycling, embodying the spirit of café racers. Now, as an iconic era draws to a close, Triumph has pulled out all the stops to bid adieu to this legendary model with a bang. Meet the Triumph Thruxton Final Edition, a masterpiece of design and engineering that marks the culmination of a glorious history.

Harking back to 1964 when it was first introduced, the Triumph Thruxton has won hearts the world over for its timeless style and impressive performance. Now, as it prepares to take its final bow in 2024, Triumph has unveiled a fitting tribute in the form of the Thruxton Final Edition. This exclusive motorcycle promises to be a collector’s dream, combining the best elements of its predecessors and wrapping it all in a package that’s impossible to resist.

While the Thruxton Final Edition is based on the Thruxton RS, it’s far from being just another variation. This limited-edition gem is the result of decades of Thruxton development, featuring sublime performance, agile handling, and a premium specification that’s sure to leave motorcycling enthusiasts in awe.

Visually, the Thruxton Final Edition is a sight to behold. It’s resplendent in an exclusive Competition Green paint scheme with hand-painted gold lining, each one personally signed by the artist. This elegant color scheme pays homage to the Thruxton’s rich racing heritage, combining the style and traditional elegance of the RS.

But this isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s a piece of history. Each Thruxton Final Edition comes with a certificate of authenticity bearing the bike’s unique VIN number. These documents are signed by members of the Thruxton 1200 design team and Triumph’s CEO, Nick Bloor, adding a personal touch to every unit. Additionally, a unique Final Edition engine badge with a gold-finished surround and ‘Final Edition’ graphic infill will accompany each motorcycle, making it a remarkable display piece.

For those lucky enough to own one, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to possess a rare piece of Triumph history and experience the ultimate Thruxton at the pinnacle of its development.

The Thruxton Final Edition doesn’t just look good; it boasts category-defining specifications, including:

High Power 1200cc Bonneville Engine:** This Euro 5-compliant powerhouse produces 105PS with 112Nm of torque, ensuring a thrilling ride with that signature Thruxton exhaust note.

Race-Bred Suspension: Fully adjustable Showa USD ‘Big Piston’ forks and twin Öhlins piggy-back rear suspension units deliver unmatched agility, control, and rider feedback.

Lightweight 17″ Aluminum Wheels: Fitted with Metzeler Racetec RR tires, these wheels provide stability and incredible grip.

Brembo M50 Calipers: These radial monobloc calipers offer race-level braking performance, enhanced with ABS for road safety.

Three Riding Modes: Easily switch between Road, Rain, and Sport modes to adapt to your riding conditions.

Twin Clock Instrument Set-Up: A stylish and informative dashboard keeps you up to date with vital information.

LED Lighting: The Thruxton Final Edition features modern LED lighting, including a distinctive DRL with a branded bulb cap headlight and a compact taillight.

USB Charging Port: Stay connected on the road with a convenient USB charging port for your devices.

Exclusive to the Final Edition are several distinctive features, such as the Competition Green metallic paint scheme, black side panels and mudguards, hand-painted gold lining, the Heritage Triumph logo in gold, Final Edition branding, and the Final Edition engine badge.

Husqvarna Motorcycles is proud to introduce the 2024 Norden 901, a cutting-edge adventure motorcycle that promises improved performance and safety. Since its initial release in 2021, the Norden 901 has captured the hearts of adventure enthusiasts worldwide, offering the perfect platform for riders to explore the globe on their terms.

The 2024 Norden 901 retains its tried and tested 889cc parallel-twin engine, renowned for its robust performance. Combined with a lightweight steel trellis frame, WP APEX suspension, and multiple ride modes, this motorcycle continues to deliver exceptional comfort, especially during extended journeys through rugged and challenging terrains.

One standout enhancement is the lean-angle sensitive Cornering Motorcycle Traction Control (MTC), which now boasts ten levels of rear wheel slip adjustment when the optional Explorer Mode is activated. This feature caters to riders of all skill levels, allowing seasoned adventurers to confidently navigate technical corners while providing novice travelers with added traction on unpredictable terrain.

The 2024 Norden 901 introduces several new features, including a convenient USB port, Hazard Warning lights for emergency situations, and an exhaust system that complies with EURO 5+ regulations.

The Norden 901’s premium build quality shines through its carefully selected components. Equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires, Bosch Cornering ABS, a Power Assist Slipper Clutch (PASC), and multiple ride modes, it promises an unparalleled riding experience.

Key technical highlights of the 2024 Norden 901 include updated grey and yellow graphics for a distinctive appearance, an advanced exhaust system for EURO 5+ compliance, a side dashboard USB port, and a Hazard Warning system. The motorcycle’s chromium-molybdenum steel frame with the engine as a stressed member ensures structural integrity.

The 889 cc parallel-twin engine delivers 105hp peak power and 100Nm of torque, while the adjustable WP APEX suspension guarantees exceptional comfort on and off-road. Four selectable ride modes (Street, Rain, Offroad, and optional Explorer) provide versatility, and the ride-by-wire throttle offers adjustable response in Explorer mode. The Norden 901 also comes with a standard Easy Shift function and tubeless spoked wheels fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires, striking a balance between on-road and off-road performance.

Furthermore, a large 19-liter fuel tank extends the range to a remarkable 400 km, enabling longer adventures without frequent refueling stops. An optional Connectivity Unit is available, offering TbT+ navigation, telephone call capabilities, and music selection directly from the rider’s smartphone.