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Triumph Motorcycles New Zealand has confirmed local pricing for the hot new Daytona 660 Hot on the heels of the announcement that New Zealand will get the new Triumph Daytona, Triumph Motorcycles has announced pricing for the revived model. While the exact arrival is yet to be confirmed, it has been announced that the 2024 Triumph Daytona price starts at $15,990 with the LAMS variant. In LAMS guise the Daytona is restricted to 57PS compared to the full-power model’s 95PS but still benefits from the same peak torque of 62Nm. In a change for Triumph’s 660cc offerings in the New Zealand market, the Daytona 660 will be offered with its full un-restricted potential. Pricing for the full-power Daytona 660 starts at $16,690 with both models available in three colours - Carnival Red and Sapphire Black, Snowdonia White and Sapphire Black, and Satin Granite and Satin Jet Black. Unlike the previous generation of the Daytona, Triumph is changing direction with the new Daytona 660 in terms of just how sporty the bike is. The old bike was an out-and-out supersport. Blisteringly quick, yes, but with all the negatives that come with a bike designed for the racetrack. With sales of full-phat supersports being on a steady decline over the past decade, Triumph is redirecting the Daytona towards being a more everyday usable sport offering. Still a decent performance machine with plenty of baked-in fun, but not as punishing to ride as a supersport. That means a more comfortable rider triangle with a more upright riding position than the old model, with an 810mm seat height with a narrow standover while the handlebar and footpeg position have been designed with comfort rather than track dominance in mind. Triumph has fitted the Daytona 660 with quality Showa non-adjustable upside-down big piston 41mm forks at the front and a Showa preload adjustable monoshock RSU to manage bumps in the road. Performing stopping duties for the 201 kilo Daytona are a pair of Triumph branded radial four-piston brakes with twin 310mm discs and braided brake lines, while the lightweight 17-inch rims are paired with Michelin’s new Power 6 tyres to keep the Daytona stuck to the road. Tech-wise, the Daytona ships with the mandatory ABS braking system in play with the addition of three rider modes  (Sport, Road and Rain) and switchable traction control thanks to the inclusion of a ride-by-wire throttle. Instrumentation is of the same design as the Tiger Sport which means a colour TFT screen integrated into a white-on-black LCD-display. As an optional accessory, the Daytona can be equipped with the My Triumph Connectivity System which enables turn-by-turn navigation plus phone and music interaction. As always, Triumph will debut the Daytona with plenty of other accessories ready to fit. Currently, there are over 30 Genuine Triumph Accessories available, all engineered alongside the motorcycle, tested to the same high standards, and carrying the same two-year unlimited mileage warranty as the new Daytona itself. While it is a different direction to what many would have expected for a rebirthed Daytona, Triumph is likely on the right track if they want to sell a bunch of these bikes. We’re certainly excited about the prospect of swinging a leg over one when they arrive later this year.

Special edition bikes seem to be an unavoidable aspect of the motorcycling landscape these days, but you've gotta give credit where its due, nobody does a special edition quite like Vespa. The Italian scootering icon's latest special-edition machine continues the brand's commitment to dropping a new Lunar New Year-inspired limited-run machine each year until they run out of Lunar New Year animals. This year's bike ushers in the year of the dragon, and it's kinda cool. It even has a matching varsity jacket in honour of the Year of the Dragon if you really want to go all in on the theme. In its release, Vespa states that "the Vespa 946 is reimagined in a golden hue for the exclusive Dragon collector’s edition, embodying the fierce spirit of the scooter." It's definitely eye-catching, though it may have somewhat limited appeal to Kiwis unfamiliar with the Lunar New Year. In total, Vespa will be crafting a limited run of 1888 examples of the 946 Dragon with its vibrant emerald green dragon motif that snakes around the livery. Vespa New Zealand has confirmed that three examples of the Vespa 946 Dragon will be heading our way in the coming months, likely March 2024, with pricing yet to be announced. To commemorate the launch and pay homage to the Lunar New Year, Vespa is also releasing its inaugural fashion item. The exclusive Dragon Varsity Jacket goes hand-in-hand with the iconic scooter and reflects its signature combination of style and legacy. Drawing from the Vespa 946 Dragon’s design, the ribbed wool and nappa leather-sleeved varsity jacket features a dragon motif in emerald green alongside prints and embroideries on the left pocket and back panel. The jacket’s front panel features Vespa’s iconic V monogram accompanied by an ancient Chinese proverb.

That's right folks! The Triumph Daytona has officially been confirmed to be making a comeback in 2024 with an all-new design based on the incredibly popular Trident platform. As we’ve long suspected, Triumph is bringing the Daytona nameplate back for 2024 with the new bike entering the market at a crucial time for the category. The 2024 Triumph Daytona has officially been confirmed to return in 2024 with an all-new design based on the incredibly popular Trident platform rather than the traditional Street Triple base of past Daytona models. It makes sense considering the market appeal of the Supersports segment has been on the decline for a number of years, with riders favouring more practical bikes over the hard-edged track weapons the Supersports class has evolved into. Triumph says this is because, with the new Daytona, they are aiming for a more mainstream offering along the lines of the Kawasaki Ninja 650 with the ability to be easily used every day while still being able to take on the other bikes in the segment, namely the Aprilia RS660, Yamaha YZF-R7 and the soon to arrive Suzuki GSX-8R. As per tradition, the Daytona 660 is propelled by a Triumph triple-cylinder engine which in Daytona trim produces ​​95PS of peak power and 69Nm of peak torque - an increase of 17% more power and 9% more torque than the unrestricted Trident. That comes thanks to upgraded internals including a new crank, camshaft with new profiles, new cylinder head, new pistons and new valve gears. Peak power is achieved at 11,250rpm with the redline set at 12,650rpm. Triumph says more than 80 percent of the Daytona’s 69Nm of peak torque is available from just 3,125rpm delivering responsive sporty and fully usable performance. Peak torque itself is achieved at 8,250rpm. Triumph Mororcycles New Zealand has confirmed that both the full power and LAMS versions of the Daytona 660 are heading to our shores. That is welcome news to many Triumph triple fans who have long hoped for the Trident and Tiger Sport 660 to be offered in full power guise. Triumph says the engine tune of the Daytona 660 provides a smooth, responsive and linear delivery with the perfect combination of low-down torque, mid-range and top-end power. Along with the extra power over the Trident, the Daytona 660 also scores a brand-new exhaust, creating an unmistakable soundtrack. Fuel comes via a 14-litre fuel tank, and with a claimed fuel economy of 4.9 litres per 100km should see a range around the 285km mark. Over in the chassis department, and in keeping with the aim of an attainable and usable sport bike the new Daytona features an 810mm seat height with a narrow standover while the handlebar and footpeg position have been designed with comfort rather than track dominance in mind. Triumph has fitted the Daytona 660 with quality Showa non-adjustable upside-down big piston 41mm forks at the front and a Showa preload adjustable monoshock RSU to manage bumps in the road. Performing stopping duties for the 201 kilo Daytona are a pair of Triumph branded radial four-piston brakes with twin 310mm discs and braided brake lines, while the lightweight 17-inch rims are paired with Michelin’s new Power 6 tyres to keep the Daytona stuck to the road. Tech-wise, the Daytona ships with the mandatory ABS braking system in play with the addition of three rider modes  (Sport, Road and Rain) and switchable traction control thanks to the inclusion of a ride-by-wire throttle. Each rider mode offers a different throttle response and level of traction control intervention, with Sport mode providing the most reactive throttle response for full-on road rides or track sessions. The traction control system can also be turned off using the instrument menu for riders who prefer complete freedom from electronic intervention. This is all controlled through multi-functional instruments that feature a colour TFT screen integrated into a white-on-black LCD display. As an optional accessory, the Daytona can be equipped with the My Triumph Connectivity System which enables turn-by-turn navigation plus phone and music interaction. As always, Triumph will debut the Daytona with a number of other accessories ready to fit. Currently, there are over 30 Genuine Triumph Accessories available, all engineered alongside the motorcycle, tested to the same high standards, and carrying the same two-year unlimited mileage warranty as the new Daytona itself. New Zealand pricing and availability are yet to be announced by Triumph Motorcycles New Zealand.

The following is a Press Release from Harley-Davidson Australia and New Zealand: Harley-Davidson today announced that the long-awaited X™350 and X™500 motorcycles are now available for purchase from dealers across Australia and New Zealand following the models’ initial unveiling in September 2023. The new X™350 and X™500, designed in Milwaukee and taking their styling cues from some of the Motor Company’s most iconic models, represent Harley-Davidson’s return to the Learner Approved Motorcycles Scheme (LAMS) segment and provide an opportunity for new and returning riders alike to score a ride on the world’s most iconic motorcycle brand. All the Harley-Davidson X™350 and X™500 elements have been designed to offer a comfortable riding experience, blending form with function to create a perfect harmony allowing riders to focus on the joy of riding and expressing their individuality. “We’re happy to bring the lightweight yet high-performance Harley-Davidson X™350 and X™500 to market that bears all the hallmarks of the Harley-Davidson® brand and allows more people than ever before to swing a leg over a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle,” said Nigel Keough, Managing Director for Harley-Davidson Australia and New Zealand. The X™350 will be available at authorised Harley-Davidson® dealerships with an Australian Ride Away Price of $8,495 in Dramatic Black, Dynamic Orange, Supersonic Silver and Pearl White. At the same time, the X™500 will be available with an Australian Ride Away Price of $11,495 in Dramatic Black, Dynamic Orange, Supersonic Silver and Pearl White. The X™350 will be available at authorised Harley-Davidson® dealerships with a New Zealand Ride Away Price of $9,495 in Dramatic Black, Dynamic Orange, Supersonic Silver and Pearl White. At the same time, the X™500 will be available with a New Zealand Ride Away Price of $12,750 in Dramatic Black, Dynamic Orange, Supersonic Silver and Pearl White. A collection of Harley-Davidson X™ apparel is also now available to allow customers to personalise their look on and off the motorcycle. Customers should contact or visit their nearest Harley-Davidson dealership to book a test ride on the motorcycle.

Some manufacturers have a bike to suit all tastes, but what happens when the range is so plentiful your customers can’t choose between models? Simple, you take some of the best aspects of a bunch of them, squish them together and sell the result. Marketing genius if you ask me! That at least is what I think Harley-Davidson was thinking when they came up with the Sport Glide and going by MIA sales figures, it has definitely paid off, with the Sport Glide consistently one of Harley's best sellers since its introduction. I think there are a few reasons for this. While some flashy bikes have come and gone, the Sport Glide - which retails from $34,750 - offers an incredibly versatile platform for Harley's core audience of cruiser riders wanting to experience the brand's Milwaukee-Eight V-twin engine. Along with that attractive big American V-twin a removable fairing and panniers which mean with the one bike you have multiple personalities you can unlock in just a couple of minutes. If you're an indecisive man and want to get a Harley, this is probably the bike for you! Now, this isn’t my first experience with “the indecisive man’s Harley” as I rode it shortly after it arrived in NZ dealers back when I worked at Bike Rider Magazine. Fast forward a few years from that first ride and it’s interesting to see how little Harley-Davidson has changed the bike. In fact, I’m pretty sure the only updates have been the colour options. Styling is a key factory of the Sport Glide. In fact, styling is the bike's key ingredient that sets it apart from the rest of the Harley Softail range. Up the front is a small batwing fairing which is easily removable to reveal the circular LED headlight beneath, while at the rear is a pair of hard pannier bags which when removed leave little trace that the bike comes with them. At the centre of the Sport Glide is the smallest option in the Milwaukee-Eight engine range, the 1745cc 107. While it is the entry to the big-bore Harley range, personally I'm a big fan of the 107. While Harley-Davidson continues to push engine sizing out, the 107 is a beautiful unit that balances the character of a big Harley V-twin with the flexibility to actually rev it out and have fun. While the Milwaukee-Eight 114 has become the go-to version of the engine for Harley, personally I find the 107 a much more enjoyable engine to ride. The 114 is a torquey beast, but the more balanced delivery of the 107 is something to behold. Despite being 10kW and 21Nm down on power compared to the 114, the 107 is the sportiest engine in terms of rider feel and is much more willing to rev than its larger displacement counterparts. It is a beautiful unit that balances the iconic character of a big Harley V-twin with the flexibility to rev it out and have fun. So what makes the Sport Glide stand out then? Simple, it is a bike that can follow your mood from day to day with ease, yet packs all the character and fun you’d expect from a bike with its descriptive name. Sure, it's the indecisive man's Harley. But at our core aren't we all a bit indecisive?

After running in various forms for the past seven years, it has been confirmed there will be no Shiny Side Up Bike Fest events for 2024. The ACC-backed events which span the length and breadth of the nation will skip past the 2024 summer riding season as the initiative is evaluated. “ACC is proud to have run the Shiny Side Up motorcycle safety campaign alongside Waka Kotahi and the Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council (MSAC) since 2016, says ACC injury prevention partner and Ride Forever programme manager David Keilty. Despite Shiny Side Up being shelved for the 2024 season, Keilty explains ACC isn’t shirking its commitment to New Zealand motorcycle safety. “While we are not running the Shiny Side Up events in 2024, motorcycle safety remains a priority for ACC. We are going to take the opportunity to evaluate Shiny Side Up and refresh our approach to motorcycle safety and education,” he said. “We are working with our Regional Injury Prevention partners to provide community-led events focusing on motorcycle safety. We also plan to partner with already established motorcycle events around the country to promote our safety message and the ACC Ride Forever coaching course.” Ride Forever coaching will continue to be available throughout the 2024 calendar year, with Keilty pointing to the real-world impact the subsidised coaching has had for Kiwi motorcyclists. “Data shows riders who have completed a Ride Forever coaching course are up to 50% less likely to lodge a motorcycle accident claim than non-trained riders, he said. As for whether when and how Shiny Side Up Bike Fest events return, Keilty says riders wishing to be kept up to date can do so through the Shiny Side Up and Ride Forever web pages.

BMW Motorrad's new Wellington store has opened its doors to customers. Continental Motorrad has opened a dedicated BMW motorcycle dealership in Kaiwharawhara, Wellington. Five months after the launch of Continental Motorrad in Auckland, a second Continental BMW hub selling cars and motorbikes as well as Wellington Mini Garage has been created at the Continental Cars BMW and Wellington Mini Garage site just north of Wellington’s city centre. 100 per cent dedicated to the BMW Motorrad brand, the region’s motorcycling community can expect the new dealership to live up to the tagline Make Life a Ride. The dealership will stock a full range of BMW motorcycles, parts, accessories, and apparel while also offering specialist sales and aftersales service. “It’s great that there’s now a place in Wellington where all things BMW come together as one,” said Dealership Manager, Ian Shiner. “Our team is passionate about the brand and committed to sharing their enthusiasm for making life a ride. They live, eat, breathe, and dream motorbikes.” There’s an open invitation to the local motorcycling community to drop in and see what Continental Motorrad offers. According to Ian, the team will have a warm welcome waiting.

Is Triumph Motorcycles bringing back the Daytona? Full-fairing sports bikes seem to be having a renaissance and the latest manufacturer to jump on the wagon is Triumph Motorcycles with what could be the return of the legendary Daytona nameplate. Triumph’s Daytona nameplate has sat dormant since the 675 R went out of production in 2017. While we saw a brief glimmer of the name making a comeback in the 765 Moto2, that was a limited edition affair that sadly didn’t translate to a full production model. And so fans wanting an obtainable Daytona have been left waiting. That looks set to change with Triumph potentially bringing the Daytona nameplate back in 2024 with Triumph teasing a new faired sportbike via social media today. While Triumph is keeping things pretty close to their chest, we know the new bike will build upon the brand’s 660 triple engine rather than the 765cc unit found in the Street Triple. That could mean potentially a full power and LAMS version for the New Zealand market if Triumph makes both available. Currently, Triumph's other 660 models, the Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660 are only available here in LAMS-spec. While using the 660 platform would be a departure from Triumph's sport bikes and Street Triple lineup being closely linked, it does make a lot of sense considering the growth in the sports bike market is in sub-660cc bikes. However, with changes in tastes and a trend towards the 660cc market evident, it seems Triumph is aiming for the likes of the Aprilia RS660 and Yamaha R7 with what we're assuming is going to be called a Daytona 660. With the Daytona name still having plenty of cache with the riding community, it would make sense for that to be the bike's name rather than the older Sprint nameplate which was more closely associated with sports touring. Details on the bike’s actual specs are yet to be released. However, Triumph has scheduled a full reveal for early January so we'll know all there is to know in just a few weeks. Regardless of whether it is called a Daytona, Sprint or a completely new moniker, it will be great to see another Triumph triple with a full fairing once again hitting the road for the first time since 2017. Watch this space.

Royal Enfield Australia and New Zealand has confirmed pricing and availability for the impressive all-new Himalayan 450. Royal Enfield's all-new Himalayan is due to arrive in Kiwi dealers in January, with pricing for the entry-level adventure bike now confirmed as starting at just $8,990! Pre-orders for the first shipment of the new Himalayan units are now live at www.royalenfieldmotorcycles.co.nz or at your nearest Royal Enfield dealership. Secure your seat with a refundable deposit of $500, and be one of the first in the country to take delivery of this highly anticipated Adventure motorcycle. The Himalayan 450 will initially be available in New Zealand in 4 colourways (Kaza Brown, Slate Salt, Slate Poppy Blue, Hanle Black), with the first shipments of the Himalayan 450 are due to be delivered to pre-order customers from early March 2024. The all-new Himalayan takes the original concept and brings it up to a truly global level. With a 40hp 452cc water-cooled single thumping at its heart, the new bike ups the spec across the board. Power figures are up 65% on the old Himalayan 411, while peak torque registers in at a 25% increase with 40Nm on tap. Royal Enfield calls the engine the Sherpa 450, and it is the first engine from the firm to use water-cooling, a DOHC head, DLC coatings, an 11.5:1 compression ratio, and a six-speed gearbox. The clutch is a slip-and-assist unit which allows for a lighter feel at the lever as well as prevents the rear wheel from locking due to improper downshifting. The engine is also mounted at a 21º forward angle to help the bike's weight distribution and handling. Service intervals are set at 10,000km and fuel consumption is a claimed 28.15kmpl according to WMTC testing. The new Himalayan also utilises a ride-by-wire throttle (another first for RE) which allows for the bike to feature two throttle maps - eco and performance on which each can have the rear ABS deactivated for riding in the dirt. This is controlled via Royal Enfield's new Tripper TFT Dash unit, a circular TFT which allows for Google Maps to be run through the Royal Enfield app and displayed on the top half of the screen. It is an incredibly light unit, and Enfield has cleverly developed it to be able to be updated via the app - essentially future-proofing the unit. Lighting is all LED with the headlight shared with the Super Meteor. The rear indicators feature integrated brake lights as adding a traditional tail light limits rear wheel articulation. The suspension comes in the form of 43mm USD Showa SFF forks and a rear shock with pre-load adjustment, both offer up to 200 mm of travel. The latter can be achieved easily thanks to the class-leading toolkit Royal Enfield is shipping the new Himalayan which features not only the usual spanners but a C-spanner to adjust the rear shock's preload collar. Ground clearance is listed as 230mm while seat height from the standard seat can be adjusted with two positions - a low 825 mm-845 mm. A low seat option drops this down to 805-825mm while a Rally seat is one of 30 factory accessories the bike is set to launch with. Rolling stock is a 21-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wrapped in 90/90-21 and 140/80-17 CEAT adventure rubber. While our original expectation was that the new Himalayan would see the brand offering a tubeless spoked wheel design for the New Zealand market ( giving Royal Enfield a real point of difference to its competition in the lightweight adv sector), Royal Enfield Australia and New Zealand have confirmed the bike will debut with tube type wheels. An announcement is expected in 2024 regarding the availability of tubeless wheels on the Himalayan 450. For up-and-coming adventure riders, a heavy bike isn't ideal for getting to grips with rough rides. RE has kept that in mind and the new Himalayan 450's all-important weight number is 198kg fully fueled and ready to ride.

With the Motor Company celebrating its 120th Anniversary in the same year as H.O.G. celebrates 40 years of community, hundreds of dedicated Harley-Davidson owners from as far as Canada, Japan, Australia and Fiji, descended to The Gate in Cromwell, Central Otago between 10th to 12th November for the most exhilarating weekend of the year. The 2023 National H.O.G. Rally was an action-packed experience for all H.O.G. Members, with a high-octane lineup both on and off the track. Amidst jaw-dropping scenery of sweeping roads, rugged mountain ranges and lakes, in glorious weather, H.O.G. Members enjoyed chapter challenges alongside the renowned Thunder Ride, guided rides, food trucks, a buffet meal, and performances from local Queenstown bands. Harley-Davidson has long established itself as one of the world's most iconic and lifestyle-driven brands, with its influence evident in every product and experience it offers. This event is the culmination of a year-long celebration, marking a significant chapter in Harley-Davidson's 120-year legacy. Aptly named, the Thunder Run, saw almost 400 bikes cruise in roaring glory from Cromwell to Clyde Dam, an area usually closed to the public, which was permitted entry by Contact Energy NZ in support of the community-focused ride. With community and social impact at the heart of the event, the H.O.G. Rally proudly supported two local organisations including Journeys, an establishment empowering women with life skills and means to combat bullying, and Clyde Primary School, which performed a Kapa Haka with profound energy, welcoming H.O.G. Members as they rolled into the small historic township of Clyde. Three guided adventures also took place over the weekend, including a memorable ride to Nevis Valley. Led by McIver & Veitch Harley-Davidson on Pan America models, riders enjoyed a wondrous route of hard-packed gravel faring over majestic mountains and river crossings that showcased the breathtaking local region. Coined the ‘Olympics’ of the Harley-Davidson world, this year’s chapter challenge was go-kart racing hosted at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell. A Chapter games win is a rarity, and after a healthy dose of competition, Deep South HOG prevailed as crowned national champions. In true spirit, MC and Cromwell local Grant Stewart concluded, “The people, the bikes and the rides made the event second to none”. “The Gate at Cromwell, Central Otago was a beautiful location to mark 120 years of Harley-Davidson and 40 years of H.O.G. in New Zealand, said Harley-Davidson ANZ Managing Director, Nigel Keough. “The greatest thing about this event was seeing all our local chapters, dealerships and members, including families, catching up, reconnecting and making new friendships. There was lots of laughter and smiles amongst our community who came together from far and wide to volunteer and help each other over the weekend, all because of one passion - Harley-Davidson. The event was a great success and Harley-Davidson looks forward to sharing more customer engagement experiences with our customers in the future.” The Harley Owners Group is open to all Harley-Davidson owners as well as family & friends of Harley-Davidson owners across the world who share a passion for riding. By joining a local chapter, members can sign up to exclusive benefits such as H.O.G. events that make the most out of their ownership experience.

Suzuki is doubling down on its touring lineup with the soon-to-be introduced GSX-S1000GX adding another arrow to the brand's quiver. Set to arrive in New Zealand dealers in February with pricing starting at $27,999, the new GSX-S1000GX builds upon the GSX-S1000GT platform but shifts focus from a long-slung sports tourer into the segment the Europeans like to call a "Crossover". That means its a bike that sits somewhere in between a traditional sports tourer and an adventure bike. So now Suzuki finally has a contender in the class to go up against the likes of BMW’s S1000XR and the Kawasaki Versys 1000, what makes it special? The GX features a longer suspension stroke that contributes to its extended front and rear wheel travel, increased ground clearance and comfortable upright riding position. Furthermore, it achieves a whole new level of suspension performance by introducing Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES) — Suzuki’s first electronic suspension — and by adopting Suzuki’s original new Suzuki Road Adaptive Stabilization (SRAS) system. These technologies combine to make the GX comfortable and controllable on road surfaces ranging from urban asphalt and cobblestones to paved country and winding mountain roads. As a result of the shift in focus, the GX features a longer suspension stroke that contributes to its extended front and rear wheel travel, increased ground clearance and comfortable upright riding position. It also introduces Suzuki’s first electronic suspension Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension (SAES) as well as adopting Suzuki’s original new Suzuki Road Adaptive Stabilization (SRAS) system. According to Suzuki, these new technologies come together to make the GX comfortable and controllable on road surfaces ranging from urban asphalt to paved country and winding mountain roads. Propelling the GX forward is the same 999cc inline-4 as found in the GSX-S1000GT, while keeping the rider informed is Suzuki’s new generation of TFT instrumentation. Hailing from Suzuki’s long line of 999cc inline-4s, the GSX-S1000GX should be a cracking bike for the long haul riders out there wanting a bike that’s as reliable as the sun.

AUSTRALIA’S SAVIC MOTORCYCLES C-SERIES EV MOTORBIKE TAKES ON PHILLIP ISLAND GP TRACK IT’S HEADED FOR NEW ZEALAND TOO! This has to be the most comprehensive pre-production testing regime we’ve ever seen! Aussie start-up Savic Motorcycles, headed by former Ford engineer Dennis Savic, has taken several years to bring its café-racer styled EV motorcycle to production, and the beautiful but brutal Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit was one in a handful of rigorous final tests. Prototypes of the Company’s flagship C-Series electric bike have undergone numerous changes after endless testing – the Café Racer look concept hasn’t changed, but the details have been refined over and over. Dennis Savic is happily and proudly a perfectionist, and his motorcycles were never going to market until every aspect met his standards. The story of the bike over the last few years shows the honesty of the Savic Motorcycles organization… when things were difficult or problems arose, the Savic Motorcycles team told us instead of hiding anything. They also told us how they solved the problems, and how each prototype and test built a better motorcycle. The suspension, for example, has recently been perfection tuned by professional motorcycle racers. After suspension, high-load, and thermal management system testing at cracking pace (up to 170 km/h) around Phillip Island, Dennis Savic said that the day was “a glimpse into the future”. And if you think an electric motorcycle is silent, oh no! The C-Series sounds like a jet fighter down the famous Grand Prix course straight! Dennis’ glimpse into the future is just about already here because the first production Savic Motorcycles C-Series bikes will ride from the Melbourne production line in December. The Company will begin supplying bikes to fill the impressive number of pre-orders with over 230 customers waiting patiently for their own piece of Aussie engineering. New Zealand has always been on the Savic Motorcycles whiteboard as the first overseas market for the Aussie brand. Two C-Series models will be available, Alpha, and Delta. The C-Series Alpha has 60KW (80HP) and 200NM of torque, Brembo brakes front and rear, inverted forks, Pirelli Diablo Rosso 3 tyres, 7” touchscreen, multiple ride modes including customizable modes, ABS, traction control, cruise control and regenerative braking. It also clicks-up 0-100km/h in a fast 3.5 seconds, and a 4.5-hour charge time to 80%. Range is quoted as 200km+ combined city/highway, with the usual disclaimers on rider weight, riding style etc. Electric technology has also allowed for connectivity to the motorcycle. The C-Series learns about your ride as you go and bonds with you like no other motorcycle. The on-board controllers continuously collect data to optimize future upgrades with the ability for over-the-air support and maintenance. The C-Series Delta version has all the same quality gear with a lower spec battery and motor, 40KW (54HP) and 140NM of torque, a quicker 3.8 hour charge, with and 150km+ combined range. But the Delta has one very attractive feature for such a quality-build motorcycle… an AUD price of $19,990 ride-away! The up-spec C-Series Alpha is AUD $26,990 ride-away. New Zealand pricing isn’t set yet, but it seems that Dennis Savic and his Company are worth watching closely. Bring it on! NZ is waiting! For more information visit www.savicmotorcycles.com Article contributed by Phil Heath