Pirelli to Continue as Spec Tire for North American World MiniGP Qualifiers
Pirelli Trackside Racing Vendors Will Provide Support at All Five Rounds
ATLANTA (May 11, 2023) – Pirelli Tire North America kicked off a successful 2023 FIM World MiniGP qualifier for North American racers this past weekend at Carolina Motorsports Park on May 5. The opening round saw the top up-and-coming talent from across the nation demonstrate their skills. Four more rounds will take place at three different racetracks and feature the 160cc and 190cc Ohvale-spec classes. A Pirelli trackside racing vendor will be on-site at each Friday qualifier. Pirelli’s 10- and 12-inch DIABLO™ Superbike slicks will serve as the spec tire, including at the upcoming round set for Barber Motorsports Park on May 19.
“Pirelli is excited to keep things rolling for the upcoming FIM World MiniGP,” said Oscar Solis, senior racing manager, Pirelli. “This allows racers in North America to showcase their skills against the best in the world. Pirelli’s racing DNA runs deep, and our goal is to ensure that the future stars of road racing have the tires and knowledge they need to succeed.”
Pirelli continues to set the industry standard for performance in the minibike segment and has been chosen as original equipment on Ohvale’s GP-0 160 and GP-2 190 motorcycles. As the official tire supplier for the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship since 2004, Pirelli’s intense research and development has played a crucial role in the latest tire technology finding its way to the 10 and 12-inch DIABLO Superbike slicks that are designed to help the next generation reach the pinnacle of road racing.
The North American riders who qualify will have the opportunity to join the world stage at the 2023 FIM World MiniGP in Valencia, Spain, against the top up-and-comers across the globe. Riders from all countries will compete aboard Pirelli-equipped motorcycles in Valencia.
2023 Mini GP Qualifiers (North America)
May 19: Barber Motorsports Park | Trackside Tires (301) 232-5542
June 2: Road America | Farrell Performance (920) 236-0000
July 15: New Jersey Motorsports Park | Trackside Tires (301) 232-5542
July 22: New Jersey Motorsports Park | Trackside Tires (301) 232-5542
For more information about the complete line of Pirelli motorcycle tires, please visit Pirelli.com.
Metzeler Extends Spring Moto Rebate Program Through July 31, 2023
Popular Rebate Program Also Expanded to Canada and Features Eligible Street and Off-Road Tires
ATLANTA (May 5, 2023) – Metzeler North America is pleased to announce that the spring moto rebate program has been extended for residents of the United States and expanded to include residents of Canada. This program allows motorcycle enthusiasts who purchase Metzeler tires through their local participating dealership and select online retailers to receive as much as $25 USD / $40 CAD rebate per tire or $60 USD / $100 CAD rebate per tire set on eligible street and off-road tires through July 31, 2023.
“Metzeler is thrilled to extend the spring moto rebate within the United States as well as open it up to residents of Canada,” said Brian Davenport, Senior Sales Manager, Metzeler. “The Metzeler brand continues to expand its presence across all segments in 2023, making it a priority for us to include a variety of products and ensure that it benefits all Metzeler riders.”
A $25 USD / $40 CAD per tire rebate or $60 USD / $100 CAD rebate per tire set will be offered for the Metzeler Lasertec™, Enduro 3 Sahara, Racetec™ RR, Sportec™ M9 RR, Sportec™ M7 RR, Roadtec™ 01 SE, Roadtec™ 01, Roadtec™ Z8 Interact, Cruisetec™, ME 888 Marathon™ Ultra, Tourance™ Next, Tourance™ Next 2, Karoo™ Street, and Karoo™ 4. Additionally, the MCE 6 Days Extreme, MC360™ Mid Soft, and MC360™ Mid Hard are eligible for a $20 CAD per tire rebate or $30 USD / $50 CAD per tire set rebate.
This offer is valid for a limited time only on purchases made between March 1, 2023, and July 31, 2023, and for legal United States and Canada residents. After purchasing a set of qualifying Metzeler tires from a local dealer, participants must fill out a claim form and provide a receipt for proof of purchase to receive their physical or digital VISA prepaid card.
About METZELER: Metzeler has manufactured motorcycle tires since 1892 and our history goes hand in hand with the history of the motorcycle. From the use of new materials and the development of innovative tread designs to the introduction of advanced rubber compounds, the German brand is always at the forefront of technical development. Learn more at www.metzeler.com.
to be powered by the same engine as the current 650s
gets spoked wheel
could borrow the bodywork from the Interceptor 650
Royal Enfield may offer yet another new model called Sherpa 650. It is getting crowded at Enfield product listing with motorcycles aimed at different types of riders. This is such a big leap from just 10 to 15 years ago. The brand and the company keeps on growing and improving and challenging itself as well as its target audience.
A test mule seen in the spy shots here gives a better look at the probable production model.
The specifications may be very similar to 650cc trio from Royal Enfield — namely Interceptor 650, Continental GT 650, and Super Meteor 650)
Sherpa 650 looks similar to the Interceptor’s unit but has suspended on USD front forks and dual rear shocks. It seems it would get off-road ready tires.
Rumors suggest that Royal Enfield would likely launch the new Sherpa 650 in 2024. It’ll be positioned above the Interceptor and below the new Super Meteor in RE’s lineup.
Preorders are now open for both, with bikes starting to roll out in March, 2023.
On February 14, 2023, Birmingham, U.K.-based motorcycle company Mutt officially introduced its revived Mushman in two displacements: 125cc and 250cc. It’s Mutt’s newest scrambler on the block, and it comes with a number of features to set it apart from the pack.
Both displacements are powered by air-cooled, single-cylinder engines that are mated to five-speed gearboxes. The 125cc makes a claimed 10 newton-meters (about 7.37 pound-feet) of torque, while the 250cc makes a claimed 18 newton-meters (about 13.27 pound-feet) of torque. Other differences include a combined braking system (CBS) on the 125, while the 250 gets an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
The Mutt Mushman comes with 18-inch stainless-steel spoked wheels with black rims, knobby tires, black tracker handlebars, grips that feature black diamond-pattern rubber and aluminum, a black vinyl seat, and LED lighting. Other features exclusive to the Mushman in Mutt’s lineup include matt black engine bars, a leather tank strap, and a steel tank rack.
“The inspiration for the styling of the Mushman came from the idea of early scramblers,” Mutt co-founder Benny Thomas said in a statement.
“The simple practice of preparing a road bike for off-road use by taking the bulky bits off, fitting knobby tires and high-rise mudguards to create a stripped-down bike that does exactly what it says on the box. While the Mushman was never intended to be a scrambler, it has the look and the feel of something Mr McQueen would ride between shoots if he was around in 2023,” he continued.
“It’s the ultimate hack-around bike. Lightweight, good looking and perfect for taking on the city or hitting the country lanes. ‘Nothing Fancy’ is the motto for all our Mutts, and I wanted to keep the Mushman simple and classy, but add some fresh new bits and pieces such as the engine bars, tank strap & rack, all-new adjustable CNC levers, and LED indicators and headlamp,” Thomas concluded.
By the way, if you’re scratching your head about the model name, we got you covered. The name is a reference to racer and sometime actor Steve McQueen’s nom de courses, Harvey Mushman, who was well-known for his affiliation with scramblers back in the day.
Both the Mutt Mushman 125 and 250 are available to order directly from the company via its website if you’re in the U.K., as of February, 2023. The 125 will cost £3,750 (about $4,520), while the 250 will cost £4,600 (about $5,524). Two colors will be available, with the more common Titanium Grey starting to become available in March, 2023. A limited-edition Matt Green will become available shortly after that, according to the company. It’s not clear how limited-edition that color will be, so if you’re interested, your best bet is to act and/or ask quickly.
Atlanta, GA – June 9, 2022 – METZELER USA is proud to announce their continued support of the BMW MOA at the 2022 National Rally, to be held June 16-18 in Springfield, MO. Celebrating 50 years of the MOA, this landmark rally will be highlighted by the U.S. launch of two brand new Metzeler tire models: the Tourance Next 2 and Karoo 4.
“It is a huge honor to return as the Title Sponsor of the BMW MOA National Rally and support this amazing community of enthusiasts,” said Brian Davenport, Senior Sales Manager for Metzeler. “This event is always an excellent opportunity for us to not only interface with serious riders who log enough miles to really put our tires to the test, but also to educate riders on proper tire maintenance and care.”
The centerpiece of METZELER USA’s exhibit will be two new tires: the Tourance Next 2 and the Karoo 4. The Tourance Next 2 tire is the perfect tire choice for sport touring riders, with the stability and grip to perform well in any conditions, even with bikes loaded with luggage or a passenger. For those adventure riders seeking some fun off the pavement, the Karoo 4 provides exceptional traction and clearout in even the messiest of conditions while maintaining a smooth ride on the road as well.
Attendees can visit the METZELER USA booth during the rally to see the Tourance Next 2 and Karoo 4 up close, along with the rest of the lineup of sport, touring and adventure tires from METZELER. In addition, the tire manufacturer will be hosting a seminar designed to help riders get the most longevity and performance out of their tires.
“We’re proud to have Metzeler as our title sponsor for the 2022 Wander Farther National Rally,” said MOA Executive Director Ted Moyer. “BMW MOA members ride thousands of miles to come to our annual ‘homecoming,’ and many accomplish an epic trip with the help of Metzeler tires. With such a rich history between Metzeler and the MOA, it only makes sense to have Metzeler as the title partner for our signature annual event.”
For more information about Metzeler’s complete lineup of motorcycle tires, visit www.metzeler.com, or follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
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Road tripping on your bike is an excellent way for celebrating your love of riding
Are you planning a motorcycle road trip? Then you’re in for an enjoyable time. Road tripping on your bike is an excellent way to visit scenic locations while celebrating your love for riding.
However, bringing all the necessary supplies on your trip is essential to having the best experience. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of all of the most critical items you’ll need for your trip. Read on to learn our ultimate motorcycle road trip packing list.
If unfortunately, you ever find yourself a motorcycle accident victim, you can call Law Tigers team at 1-888-863-7216 for assistance. Tell them Bikernet.com sent ya.
ASK A TROOPER: “Motorcycle Riding Dog” by Ryan Janke from https://kfgo.com/
Question: Can someone with a motorcycle permit have their small dog riding on the motorcycle or would that be considered a passenger? We have already purchased a helmet and leather jacket for this lucky pup! Thank you for your response.
Answer: First of all, where will this dog be seated and how? I see less issues if you are talking about a motorcycle side car or a motorcycle trailer equipped with a kennel. But if you are talking about on the actual motorcycle with you, I don’t think this would be very safe for you or your pet.
If you are going to carry a passenger, there are a few key items to keep in mind:
Equip and Adjust Your Motorcycle:
A passenger seat and footrests are required by law.
Adjust tire pressure and suspension settings for the additional weight. (Do not exceed weight limitations specified in the owner’s manual.)
Readjust mirrors.
Passenger Preparation:
Provide protective riding gear: eye protection, a DOT-approved helmet, boots, gloves, long riding pants and a high-visibility motorcycle jacket.
Passengers under age 18 are required by law to wear a DOT-approved helmet.
Small children are required by law to be able to reach both footrests with their feet while sitting on the passenger seat.
Getting On and Off the Motorcycle:
Start the engine before the passenger gets on.
Squeeze the front brake while the passenger gets on or off the bike.
Passengers should get off the bike before the operator.
Passenger Safety Tips:
Hold operator’s waist or hips, or motorcycle’s passenger hand-holds.
Keep feet on footrests at all times, including while stopped.
Keep hands and feet away from hot or moving parts.
When turning, look over the operator’s shoulder in the direction of the turn.
Avoid turning around or making sudden moves that might affect operation.
If crossing an obstacle, rise off the seat keeping your feet on the foot pegs with knees slightly bent and allow legs to absorb the shock upon impact.
Operator Safety Tips:
A passenger will affect handling due to extra weight and independent motion.
Braking sooner with greater pressure may be necessary.
Use extra caution in a corner.
Allow more time and space for passing.
Be ready to counter the effects of wind.
Avoid extreme speeds and dramatic lean angles.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW).
For the second consecutive year, Paasch captured the victory and Rolex
Submit Your Application by April 15 for the Opportunity to Join Pirelli’s Road Racing Community
Join racers like two-time defending Daytona 200 winner Brandon Paasch as a part of the #pirellination road racing community.
ROME, Ga. (April 1, 2022) – Pirelli Tire North America is pleased to announce the launch of its new #pirellination road race community for the 2022 racing season. As the official tire of the MOTUL FIM World Superbike Championship, Pirelli and its DIABLO™ Superbike lineup is the go-to tire by racers around the world. Pirelli remains dedicated to the grassroots part of the sport, continuing with its motto “we sell what we race, we race what we sell”, and all riders may purchase the same race compound tires found on the bikes of their favorite professional riders and World Champions like Jonathan Rea and Toprak Razgatlioglu.
The road race community program will ensure racers are the first to know about the latest brand news, be notified of Pirelli’s newest products, receive updates on national marketing opportunities within the brand, and be given access to technical advice and service at select races. Pirelli’s team will also be identifying and selecting several candidates who will have the opportunity to purchase race compound tires at preferred pricing and provided with Pirelli team-branded gear.
Residents of the United States and Canada are eligible for the program.
“Pirelli is extremely excited about building up its racer community with the all-new #PirelliNation program,” said Oscar Solis, road race manager, Pirelli. “Everything we do from the very top as a brand, including product development with World and National Championship racers, trickles down to the local, club level racer. Our goal remains to provide the everyday rider and racer with access to the latest technology and the very best products available on the market. With this new community, it will allow us to strengthen our bond with those racers, educate them on our products, and provide them with the knowledge and ingredients needed to succeed.”
Pirelli’s high-performance DIABLO Superbike lineup offers several different compounds including SC1, SC2, and SC3 on the front and SCX, SC0, SC1, SC2, and SC3 on the rear.
METZELER CRUISETEC™ tires were developed to provide the performance of METZELER’s award winning sport touring tires to riders of heavyweight cruisers and baggers motorcycles.
METZELER CRUISETEC Tires Selected as Original Equipment Tires of New Indian Motorcycle Pursuit Lineup
The next generation of American touring performance motorcycles will be factory equipped with METZELER CRUISETEC™ tires.
Rome, GA – March 29, 2022 – METZELER USA is proud to announce that Indian Motorcycle has once again selected the METZELER CRUISETEC™ as original equipment tires on a new collection of models: the Indian Pursuit Dark Horse and Pursuit Limited.
Building on the already strong relationship between the German-born tire brand and America’s First Motorcycle Company, METZELER CRUISETEC™ is now the original equipment on most Cruiser, Bagger, and Touring models, including the all-new Indian Pursuit.
Indian has built the Pursuit around the comfort and features of a traditional touring bike, but with more power and attitude. These motorcycles are designed to provide both rider and passenger with ultimate luxury while also delivering a staggering 122 hp and 128 ft-lbs of torque. With a chassis-mounted fairing, premium suspension, inverted front forks, a cast-aluminum frame, and of course METZELER CRUISETEC™ tires, the Pursuit models offer rock solid stability and control.
“As Indian Motorcycle continues to push the envelope and build cutting v-twin motorcycles that are extremely powerful and capable while also featuring cutting edge comfort and technology, the need for high performance tires is paramount,” explains Josh Whitmire, North America OE Manager for Metzeler. “The METZELER CRUISETEC™ is simply the perfect tire for the new Indian Pursuit models.”
METZELER CRUISETEC™ tires will offer Pursuit riders unparalleled performance and grip in all riding conditions.
The METZELER CRUISETEC™ was especially designed to offer superior grip, handling, control and durability under the intense forces produced by today’s heavyweight and high powered motorcycles. Dual compound rear tires promote fast warm-up and chemical grip even in wet conditions, while the brush-like tread pattern helps clear water and keep your motorcycle glued to the road. The profile, reminiscent of a more aggressive sport touring tire, helps maximize the contact patch while cornering and offers incredible stability for those riding with a passenger.
For more information on the new Pursuit Dark Horse and Pursuit LImited models from Indian Motorcycle, visit www.indianmotorcycle.com. To learn more about the METZELER CRUISETEC™, visit www.metzeler.com, or follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
About Metzeler:
Metzeler has manufactured motorcycle tires since 1892 and our history goes hand in hand with the history of the motorcycle. From the use of new materials and the development of innovative tread designs to the introduction of advanced rubber compounds, the German brand is always at the forefront of technical development. Learn more at www.metzeler.com.
ROYAL ENFIELD REVEALS ALL-NEW SCRAM 411 ADV CROSSOVER
Ready. Set. Scram!
Milwaukee, WI (Tuesday, March 15, 2022) – Royal Enfield, the global leader in the midsize (250cc – 750cc) motorcycling segment, today unveiled the Scram 411 – the brand’s first ADV crossover. The new Scram 411 is an engaging, accessible and capable street scrambler, with the heart of an adventure motorcycle. Built on Royal Enfield’s proven 411cc single-cylinder engine platform and the Harris Performance chassis, the Scram 411 combines spirited agility on urban streets, with competent rough-roading capabilities. Focused and purposeful changes in the riding geometry and ergonomics make it ideal for in-city riding, as well as unpredictable, challenging trails off the urban grid.
Unveiled for global audiences today, the new Scram 411 is already available in India, and will be available in Europe, Asia Pacific, North America and Latin America later this year. The Scram 411 is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. late summer/early fall. Pricing and colorways will be announced in the coming months.
The Scram 411 is a continuation of Royal Enfield’s constant pursuit of exploration, and building motorcycles to enable every adventure. One such motorcycle is the Himalayan—Royal Enfield’s flagship adventure tourer. Launched in 2016, the Himalayan has fostered a subculture of adventure touring around the world, most recently, even Antarctica’s South Pole. Its unique design and well-rounded capability make it among Royal Enfield’s best-selling motorcycles, and it is upon this stalwart platform that the style evolution continues with the more urban-focused ADV-crossover motorcycle—the Scram 411.
The all-new Scram 411 is a new subspecies that has the authentic vibes of a scrambler and adventure touring in its DNA. With long-travel suspension and class-leading ground clearance paired with a 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear, the Scram 411 is playfully agile on city streets, yet is highly capable of tackling more rugged terrain, so the exploration doesn’t end when the pavement stops.
Siddhartha Lal, Managing Director, Eicher Motors Ltd., simply loves the fluidity and the
multipurpose ability of the Scram 411. Speaking about this in the context of modern existence, he said, “Whether it’s London, New Delhi or Tokyo, the contours of modern urban existence are ever-changing. With our world increasingly becoming more fast-paced, life in the urban context has become about the weekday hustle and the weekend getaway, and everything in between. We wanted to build a motorcycle that could effortlessly navigate this entire gamut, and be the perfect ally for the young, modern-day rider. The Scram 411 is truly a motorcycle made for now, and is always ready to tackle whatever surprise is in store.”
Speaking about the inspiration behind the Scram 411, and about the new motorcycle, Executive Director, Royal Enfield, B Govindarajan, said, “The globally lauded versatility and competence of the Himalayan inspired us to reimagine the motorcycle in a more young, modern-day, urban context. The Scram 411 is the perfect crossover for young city-dwellers, who prefer a motorcycle that is fun and engaging to ride around the city, yet has a rugged appeal. By shifting the riding geometry to make the motorcycle more at home on busy city streets, and retaining its strong ability to take on rough roads and take on the weekend dirt trail, we’ve brought a unique subcategory for consumers. Like all our motorcycles, the Scram 411 is built for the global rider, and manufactured with world-class engineering. We also have an array of genuine motorcycle accessories and a vibrant apparel range inspired by the Scram lifestyle. This is a very exciting and spirited new motorcycle, and we are confident that young riders from across the world will love the new Scram 411.”
Mark Wells, Chief of Design at Royal Enfield, enjoys riding the Scram 411, and loves how easily it can navigate a wide spectrum of terrain and challenges. Speaking about creating a new subspecies of motorcycles, he said, “Most scrambler motorcycles focus only on aesthetics and looks. When we began work on the Scram 411, we were determined to create a motorcycle that would be distinct in design and purpose, and bring the best of rough-road capability to urban riding. With its distinctive look and design, playful colorways, accessible riding proposition, the Scram 411 is an ultimate ADV crossover for the urban environment.”
ROYAL ENFIELD SCRAM 411 – DETAILS & SPECIFICATIONS
The Scram 411 is powered by the globally appreciated 411cc, fuel-injected, 4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled single-cylinder engine. The counterbalanced engine ensures smooth power delivery and strong bottom-end torque that elevates the overall performance. The wide spread of useable power makes it easy to manage over long urban commutes with minimum gear shifts, and the confidence-inspiring low-revving torque allows it to tackle bad road, and off-road sections easily.
Long-travel suspension and monoshock design, together with class-leading 7.8 inches (200mm) of ground clearance, the Scram 411 delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The telescopic front suspension with 41mm forks and 7.4 inches (190mm) travel, pairs with 7.0 inches (180mm) travel on the rear, where the link-mounted monoshock enables stable and confident riding over rough roads. Front and rear disc brakes combined with dual-channel ABS, ensures confident braking.
The change in the riding geometry is brought about by the 19-inch front wheel and dual-purpose tire. This, combined with the 17-inch rear wheel, are key to the Scram 411 motorcycle’s nimble handling. The dual-purpose tires ensure a confident grip over tarmac and loose gravel for the ideal combination of on-road grip and rough-road tractability.
The seat on the new Scram 411 is designed for comfort over long saddle time. The single seat that reflects the urban styling of the motorcycle, offers great comfort for both rider and passenger. The accessible 31.2-inch (795mm) seat height enables and easy reach to the ground, making it easy to maneuver in stop-and-go traffic.
The Scram 411 features a new digital-analog instrument cluster that provides easy access to essential information. Circumvented by a traditional analog speedometer, the Scram retains this classic style element, also making for easy viewing.
WATCH THE Live Launch of the Royal Enfield Scram 411
More details, information and specifications on the North America-spec Royal Enfield Scram 411 ADV crossover motorcycle, including colorways, options, genuine accessories and pricing, will be released in the coming months. U.S. arrival is anticipated in late summer/early spring.
#readysetscram #scram411 #royalenfieldscram
About Royal Enfield
The oldest motorcycle company in continuous production in the world, Royal Enfield made its first motorcycle in 1901.
Royal Enfield North America (RENA) is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is developing a growing network of more than 140 dealers in North America, including the contiguous U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico. RENA currently offers the all-new Meteor 350, Himalayan and the 650 Twins (INT 650 and Continental GT 650) motorcycles, along with a range of Genuine Motorcycle Accessories and apparel.
ASK A TROOPER: “Motorcycle Riding Dog”
