Setting his time on his 23rd of 24 laps of the hour-long practice, Stoner was 0.168s faster than Dani Pedrosa, with the Repsol Honda man second quickest ahead of Jorge Lorenzo.

Pedrosa and Lorenzo both improved on their first-session efforts – and recorded their fastest times of the session on their final laps – whilst the latter’s Fiat Yamaha team-mate Valentino Rossi was again fourth-fastest, at just over half a second off Stoner’s mark.

Nicky Hayden showed great control when saving his bike from damage as he ran off late in the session, and finished fifth-fastest in the timings by taking more than half a second off his Friday time.

Pedrosa’s Repsol Honda team-mate Andrea Dovizioso and Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider Colin Edwards both also finished within a second of Stoner’s pace, whilst Randy de Puniet (LCR Honda), Alex de Angelis (San Carlo Honda Gresini) and Mika Kallio (Pramac Racing) all posted top-ten times in the session too.

Wildcard Ben Spies, riding for the Sterilgarda Yamaha Team, was 12th fastest, improving on his rank of 15th from the previous day.

For more discussion on Motorcycle Racing go to link

Source MotoGp

After overcoming some early dissatisfaction with the response of his Desmosedici GP9, Stoner set a best time of 1’32.813 to leave Jorge Lorenzo next fastest.

Fiat Yamaha rider Lorenzo aims to secure second spot in the World Championship standings this weekend, ahead of Stoner, and followed the Australian by a margin of 0.382s.

In the wake of his confidence-boosting first wet podium in Malaysia, Dani Pedrosa was third on the timesheet as he kept a close tab on Lorenzo, timing his fastest lap at just 0.046s slower.

World Champion Valentino Rossi completed the top four fastest times after experiencing a run-off midway through the session. He came in almost half a second ahead of Randy de Puniet, who recovered from his high-side crash at Sepang to ride a good session and record the fifth-fastest lap.

Alex de Angelis (San Carlo Honda Gresini), Colin Edwards (Monster Yamaha Tech 3), Andrea Dovizioso (Repsol Honda), Loris Capirossi (Rizla Suzuki) and Nicky Hayden (Ducati Marlboro) all recorded top-ten times in the session as well, with wildcard Ben Spies 15th on his factory Yamaha.

For more discussion on Motorcycle Racing click om link

Source: MotoGp

The engine now has a maximum speed of 8,500 RPM, up from 8,000 RPM in last year’s version.  BMW says that the engine design provides a wider range of useful engine speed and significantly better acceleration, torque and pulling power.

With the introduction of the new BMW R 1200 GS, BMW is writing yet another chapter in the story of its highly successful GS models which, for almost three decades, have been the epitome of the large-capacity grand touring Enduro.

Building upon the former generation of the R 1200 GS, which already offered supreme power and performance as well as a broad range of practical riding qualities for long tours combined with supreme pleasure on winding country and mountain roads, BMW is now enhancing this standard to an even higher level.  A more powerful engine with extra torque, results in even greater driving dynamics both on-road and off-road.

More new features include

• Electronically controlled exhaust flap for a “more muscular sound”.
• Color variants of the 2010 R 1200 GS include Alpine White non-metallic, Magma Red non-metallic, Ostra Grey matt metallic and Sapphire Black metallic.
• Color variants of the R 1200 GS Adventure are Smoke Grey matt metallic, Brilliant Yellow metallic.
• Optional extras and accessories are available, also tailored to each model with BMW’s usual high level of quality.
• New additional headlight using LED technology for the R 1200 GS is an available accessory.

The 2010 BMW R1200GS: Details

Introducing the new BMW R 1200 GS and the new R 1200 GS Adventure, BMW Motorrad is opening up yet another chapter in the story of highly successful GS models which, for almost three decades, have been the epitome of the large-capacity grand touring enduro.

Moving on from the former generation of the R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure, which already offered supreme power and performance as well as a very broad range of practical riding qualities for long tours combined with supreme pleasure on winding country and mountain roads, BMW Motorrad is now enhancing this standard, as impressive as it already is, to an even higher level.

In its construction principle and fundamental layout, the new fl at-twin power unit is the same as the DOHC engine on the BMW HP2 Sport.

But marking the new generation, the engine has been carefully updated and optimized for the R 1200 GS and the R 1200 GS Adventure, tailored to the specific requirements of a grand touring Enduro.

With the 1,170-cc Boxer engine on the former models already ensuring supreme power under all conditions and in all situations, the new R 1200 GS and R 1200 GS Adventure have even more to offer in virtually every respect.

The new engine delivers a maximum output of 110 hp, reaching top engine speed at 8,500 RPM (up by 500) and with an even broader range of engine speed, the new GS models are even more dynamic, powerful and muscular in terms of both torque and acceleration throughout the entire speed range.  This sets the standard once again for the gran

2010 BMW R1200GS Options Include

• Enduro ESA.
• BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (semi-integral, on-demand).
• RDC and ASC.
• Chrome-plated exhaust system.
• Heated hand grips.
• Hand protectors (Adventure: standard).
• Case holder (Adventure: case support for aluminum case).
• Cross-spoke wheels (Adventure: standard).
• On-board computer with oil level warning.
• Low rider’s seat (R 1200 GS).
• Lowered suspension (R 1200 GS).
• Anti-theft warning system with remote control.
• LED direction indicators.
• Off-road tires (Adventure).
• Enduro transmission (provides a short first gear on the Adventure).
• Additional halogen headlight (Adventure).
• Availability of power reduced to 98 HP and 91 RON.

2010 BMW R1200GS Luggage Options

• Vario case (GS) / aluminum case (Adventure).
• Case holder (GS) / case support for aluminum case (Adventure).*
• Vario Topcase (GS) / Aluminum Topcase (Adventure).
• Topcase fastening elements replacing passenger seat (R 1200 GS).
• Topcase support.
• Inner bags for Vario and aluminum case/Topcase.
• Back padding for Vario and aluminum Topcase.
• Carrier handle for aluminum case.
• Watertight tank bag.
• Watertight tank bag, small (R 1200 GS).
• Softbag 2, large, 51 liters.
• Softbag 2, small, 19 liters.

2010 BMW R1200GS Design Details and Options

• Cylinder head covers chrome-plated.
• Wheel cover, front, in carbon.
• Splashguard, rear, in carbon.
• HP Carbon cover for engine housing.
• Headlight protector (for off-road use only).
• Cap for Telelever and fork bridge.
• Additional LED headlight.
• Holder for additional headlight.
• LED direction indicators.
• Akrapovi? sports muffler.
• Windshield, tinted.
• Wide Enduro footrests (Adventure: standard).
• Adjustable footbrake lever (Adventure: standard).
• Handlebar cross reinforcement.
• Padding for handlebar cross reinforcement.
• Rider’s seat, low (820 mm/32.3″) in Black or Grey (R 1200 GS). Rider’s seat, Grey (R 1200 GS).
• Additional power socket.
• Heated hand grips.
• BMW Motorrad Navigator IV and Holder for BMW Motorrad Navigator.  Navigator function bag.
• Hand protectors (Adventure: standard).
• Spoiler guards, large, for hand protectors.
• Aluminum cylinder head cover protection (Adventure: standard).
• Plastic cylinder head cover protection.  Engine protection hoop (R 1200 GS).  Enduro under-engine protection, aluminum.  Frame guard.  Safety bolts for oil filler manifold.
• Anti-theft warning system with remote control.
• Reduction in power to 98 hp.
• Paddock stand.
• On-board toolkit/service kit.
• LED light for on-board power socket, 410 millimeters/16.1″.

For more discussion on the BMW R1200GS click on link

The Mavizen TTX02 unveiled Tuesday in Las Vegas marries top-shelf components and racy styling with a lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors in a package Mavizen says can do 130 mph. Azhar Hussain built it to provide a ready-made machine that anyone can ride in the 2010 TTXGP, the second running of the green grand prix he launched this year.

“We want the TTxGP eGrandPrix to be affordable and accessible,” Hussain told Wired.com. “The TTX02 is a step toward that goal.”

Mavizen joins Mission Motors in the quest to electrify high-performance motorcycles. But while the Misson One is a street-legal machine, the TTX02, like the one-off Bramo Enertia TTR we saw last year, is meant primarily for racing. What really makes it unique, however, is its interchangable drivetrain and open-source software that allows riders to customize their machines to suit their needs.

“It’s a competitive platform to start developing and tweaking,” Hussain said. “This is about giving everybody access to the best tools so they can go racing and have a stab at making history.”

In that way, the TTX02 is a seed from which Hussain hopes the future of the GrandPrix and electric motorcycle racing will grow. And the kernel of that seed was provided by KTM, a company most famous for its dirtbikes.

The rolling chassis is a KTM RC8 street bike, and they’re sent directly to Mavizen from the KTM factory. They arrive without the engine and other bits needed for internal combustion, but everything else — from the chrome-moly trellis frame and WP suspension to the Brembo brakes, cast aluminum wheels and slick bodywork — is exactly as you’d find it in a KTM showroom.

“This way we benefit from one of the best chassis in the world married up with a boosted version of the drivetrain that won the Isle of Man TTXGP,” Hussain said.

Propulsion comes from a pair of Agni 95 electric motors, each producing 22.5 kilowatts continuous power (about 30 horsepower) and 36 kilowatts peak (48.2 horsepower). Hussain says the bike weighs “about 160 kilograms” ready to ride.

Riders will choose one of three lithium-ion packs, each developed specifically for one of the TTXGP’s three racing classes. The biggest pack, the Snaefell, is an 11 kilowatt-hour unit designed for the 38-mile Isle of Man TT course. The 6 kilowatt-hour Circuit pack is for the 25-mile course. A smaller “Sprint” pack is being developed for the eGrandprix’s six-mile course. There’s no word yet on who’s building the batteries.

“The technology is moving too fast to commit to one manufacturer,” Hussain said. “For us, performance is key and price second, so our design is flexible enough not to lock down to a particular battery.”

The drivetrain is swappable, allowing racers to mix-and-match packs and motors to suit the circuit and their riding style. The software controlling it all runs on Linux — Hussain says it boots up in less than three seconds — and the system bus for power and data features a USB port.

“This allows all kinds of peripherals to integrate into a single command system,” Hussain said. “So, for example, a camera feed can integrate with battery management and GPS to form a single view of the race.”

Mavizen included a web browser into the system to allow remote login, configuration and system diagnostics. Hussain says that will make it easier to provide software upgrades and for racers to customize the software. The command system is called Chewii, and Hussain says it will be available in March at no cost to anyone who wants it.

Hussain plans to build the TTX02 in the United Kingdom. Volume will depend upon demand, but Mavizen has set an initial goal of 50 bikes. The first of them will be delivered in April. The price will depend upon what battery pack is ordered, but Hussain said “a typical circuit configuration will be about $40,000.”

Although the bike is designed specifically for the TTXGP, you don’t have to race on the Isle of Man to buy one.

“Anybody who wants to get into electric bike racing or just wnats to get the bike on the road is welcome to come and we’ll get them going,” he said.

For more discussion on the TTX02 click on link

“I had a little mishap,” he told the Associated Press. “No injuries, except my ego. I was trying to get away from some paparazzi and instead gave them a good story. It was my favorite bike, so that is really sad.”

While in Tokyo promoting his film ‘Inglourious Basterds,’ the actor said he would be looking for a new set of wheels. “You’ve got some of the best builders right here.”

A source told ET following the fender-bender that Pitt’s motorcycle barely made contact with another vehicle in Beverly Hills.

The two-time Oscar nominee didn’t appear to be hurt, but got a ride away from the scene from a friend, while other associates arrived to pick up his motorcycle later.

For more discussion on any Motorcycle News go to link

Knox will unveil its innovative Hand Armour to British riders at this year’s NEC Bike Show. Featuring a host of patented innovations, including exoskeleton protection, SPS and the exclusive BOA lacing system, Knox Hand Armour looks radically different to existing motorcycle gloves and this British technology is set to take glove design to the next level for the future.

Since producing the first back-protector in 1982, Knox has been a leading innovator of impact protection and has continually looked at other areas of the body where they felt they could make a real difference and offer much needed development. Three years ago Knox turned their attention to hand protection, patenting the SPS (scaphoid protection system), which for the first time gave riders effective protection against common scaphoid injuries to the bone connecting the thumb to the wrist. Realising that glove development in the market was limited and could be improved, Knox spent two years developing new systems for the hand, looking not only at protection but also at rider comfort and fit, which are synonymous with the Knox brand.

Other new Hand armour concepts include honeycomb gel impact protection and wrist guard shrouds. Initially four models of Knox Hand Armour will be available; the full track specification HANDROID, sports-rider orientated BIOMECH, classically-styled RECON and waterproof ZERO. These will go on sale in March 2010.

See the range at the NEC Bike Show (27th November – 6th December), Stand 2E30 in Hall 2 or go to www.knox-armour.co.uk/contact.html and request a log-in code for the new KNOX-LAB website.

The image shows the full track specification HANDROID with its innovative patented exoskeleton.

MV Agusta holds onto a precarious position as the company has defined itself in the industry with its breath-taking designs. In many ways, the lines of the F4, with its stacked headlight, single-sided swingarm, and 4 pipe under-seat exhaust, have become a part of MV’s brand identiy, making it difficult for the company to move past Tamborini’s original piece of art into new revisions.

When the new Brutale copied almost exactly the lines of its predecessor, despite being 80% new in design, we were worried that the 2010 MV Agusta F4 would follow a similar fate. There’s a strong possibility that will be the case come a week’s time, but it does seem that MV Agusta has done a little work under the hood.

It’s being rumored that MV Agusta has re-worked the 998cc inline-four motor to make 186 hp at 12,900 rpm. Engine features include two fuel-injectors, variable throttle bodies, a slipper clutch, and 8-way adjustable traction control system that is supposed to be the best the market has seen to date.

The F4’s chassis has also supposedly gotten the once-over, with a longer and lighter single-sided swingarm and more slender overall profile. A “bi-xenon” head lamp (seen already in MV’s teaser photo) follows similar lines of the previous F4, and we can expect to see the same 4 tip exhaust cans under the F4’s seat.

According to Managing Director of MV Agusta, Enrico D’Onofrio:
“The launch of the new F4 continues the path of success started with the new Brutale MV Agusta to return to writing new pages in its glorious history and rich tradition of victory. The F4 comes from an entirely new project with the aim of improving excellence as an extreme mixture of art of design and sport performance. Continue in future to invest in developing new projects to broaden the range of our amazing motorcycles.”

We’re still hopeful that the new MV Agusta F4 will live up to the hype, but considering how many parts the new bike will likely share with the Brutale, we’re still having a hard time believing we’ll be “wowed” in Milan next week. Stay tuned for photos and a detailed write up.

For More discussion on the new MV Agusta click on link

Source: OmniMoto

Rumors broke just days ago that the Multistrada 1200 might yet be used and now Ducati has confirmed this with their new microsite for the Ducati Multistrada 1200. This new information pegs the powerplant as 1198 based. This is a surprise to many who believed the bike would have a version of the 1098 powerplant as used in the Ducati Streetfighter so as to reserve the larger engine for the Superbike range.
The teaser site shows a counter which is counting down to the model launch and showing a video with a Multistrada 1200 in a darkened garage. The ugly snout is in full effect. When rumors of the Multistrada 1200 name plate first broke , there was mention of 4 distinct models in the range. Aside from the usual standard and Ohlins equipped ‘S’ models there is to be a ‘T’ (touring) model with hard saddle bags and a taller screen and, get this, an ‘R’ model. Contrary to what you might think, the ‘R’ model stands for ‘Rocks’ sports a 19? front wheel in line with it’s more serious off road abilities. This last one I’m finding hard to believe, but who knows I was wrong about the name!

The Ducati Multistrada will be revealed for the first time at the EICMA show in Milan commencing on November 10th. Ducati News Today will be providing extensive coverage when model details are released on November 9th.

For more dicussion on the New Ducati Multistrada 1200 click on link

Source: Ducati

So when eGrandPrix founder Azhar Hussain went looking for a way to get more teams to the starting line of the next electric race he went to Team Agni to help his company Mavizen produce a complete electric racing motorcycle. Details of the bike have been surfacing over the last few months and on November 3, 2009 the finalized Mavizen TTX02 will be unveiled at SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Azhar stresses these Mavizen race bikes are not meant to turn TTXGP into a one model series. It will only serve to help teams get involved in a shorter amount of time by giving them a complete electric race bike to build upon.

The TTX02 chassis will be supplied directly from a yet unnamed major manufacturer. The complete bike will cost around $40,000 USD and will be for race use only. However, the frame will have a serial number and a wiring loom and kits will be available to make it street legal. 50 units will be produced in total.

Cedric Lynch designed the Team Agni X01 to use 2 DC Agni Motors and Kokam LiFePO4 batteries to produce about 102 mph top speed. Azhar Hussain expects eGrandPrix electric race bike technology to improve by 30 to 40% but performance specs have not yet been published for the TTX02.

Mavizen will also produce electric motorcycle conversion kits that teams can use to build a race bike on a chassis of their choice. Different configurations will be available based on the chosen chassis and the teams budget. An added benefit will be availability of spare parts at all eGrandPrix races.

Be sure to submit your information on Mavizen’s website if you are interested in a TTX02 or an electric race bike conversion kit.

For more dizcussion on the Mavizen TTX02 click on link

While the auto executives rode in corporate jets, the riders from Brammo Inc. had a far less luxurious journey. The chief engineer and an advertising executive for the Ashland, Ore.-based company rode more than 700 miles from Michigan in 45-mile increments — the distance the motorcycles can travel on one charge.

The trip took so long in part because the riders stopped frequently to charge up and meet with the public and news media to draw attention to the all-electric Enertia, which sells for $12,000. The men tailgated with Pittsburgh Steelers fans, spoke to students at Carnegie Mellon University and battled autumn rains that soaked them through much of the journey.

After they arrived in Washington, the riders and Brammo CEO Craig Bramscher met Tuesday with officials from the Energy Department and with lawmakers, including their home state senators. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said Brammo, which employs 52 people at its southwestern Oregon plant, was poised to become an economic driver for the state.

The company is lobbying to extend an Energy Department grant program to include two-wheeled vehicles. It also wants to expand a 10-percent federal tax credit available to electric vehicle buyers under the economic stimulus law.

The visit by the electric motorcycle riders comes as luxury automaker Fisker Automotive said Tuesday it was buying a shuttered General Motors assembly plant in Delaware to produce plug-in hybrid electric cars. Vice President Joe Biden was among those on hand to announce a new lease on life for the GM plant.

On Thursday, Colorado-based Proterra will demonstrate an electric hybrid bus at a Capitol Hill news conference. The zero-emission bus uses lithium titanate batteries.

The electric motorcycle riders documented their trip on a blog called “Shocking Barack” and promoted it through social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

“We want to have a little fun,” said David Schiff, one of the two riders.

Schiff, creative director a Colorado-based advertising agency that is working with Brammo, dreamed up the trip and the Web site, http://www.shockingbarack.com, which he said is intended to impress Obama with the efficiency of electric motorcycles.

A crew of six has been documenting the journey, with updated videos and diaries on the Web site and even a GPS-aided map showing the exact locations of the bikes being ridden by Schiff and Brian Wismann, Brammo’s director of product development.

“People have lost faith in America’s ability to innovate and be scrappy and do a lot with a little,” Schiff said. “We believe that we are riding two-wheeled evidence to the contrary.”

CEO Bramscher calls electric vehicles the wave of the future, and says that if the price of the bike can be brought down to about $9,000, the Enertia could become a popular commuter choice.

For more discussion on the new Brammo click on link.