I piloti del Ducati Team sono stati i protagonisti della prima giornata di Wrooom 2012 a Madonna di Campiglio, con Nicky Hayden primo a “scendere in pista” per rispondere alle domande della stampa internazionale ospite dell’evento.
Il pilota americano, che si sta rapidamente riprendendo dall’infortunio alla scapola sinistra tanto da aver già rimosso il tutore protettivo, ha successivamente passato il testimone a Valentino Rossi apparso sorridente e motivato a tornare in sella tra poco più di due settimane per l’inizio dei test invernali. “Sto già molto meglio”, ha confermato Nicky Hayden, “ e questo mi ha permesso di levare il tutore secondo le tempistiche previste.

Qui a Madonna di Campiglio sto riprendendo a fare un po’ di training, per il momento solo con la cyclette, seguito dal fisioterapista della squadra, con l’obiettivo di arrivare ai test di Sepang (dal 31 gennaio al 2 febbraio ndr) con più forza possibile. Non vedo l’ora di guidare la GP12, perché per me sarà la prima volta in assoluto. Non avevo potuto provare nei test post gara di Valencia e non perderò certo i prossimi. Non ho mai fatto mistero di preferire l’attuale cilindrata alle 800cc anche se rispetto al 2006 molte cose sono diverse, a partire dalle gomme, e anche l’elettronica è stata evoluta parecchio. Avremo più potenza e dovremo trovare il bilanciamento giusto per gestirla e sfruttarla al meglio.
Durante l’inverno sono stato in contatto costante con Filippo (Preziosi) e i ragazzi del Reparto Corse e so che hanno lavorato tantissimo. A Sepang avremo molte cose da provare e sono consapevole che non sarà facile ma anche fiducioso di cominciare a ridurre le distanze, da qui alla prima gara in Qatar. Credo nella Ducati, in questo progetto e in Filippo e ho voglia di tornare in sella alla mia Ducati il prima possibile”.

“Si comincia con un altro spirito”, ha esordito sorridendo Valentino Rossi, “Nel 2011 sono arrivato al Wrooom ancora in convalescenza dall’operazione alla spalla e in seguito la stagione non è andata assolutamente come speravamo. Per quest’anno Filippo (Preziosi) ha progetto una moto diversa e in Ducati hanno fatto un grande sforzo per averla per l’inizio dei test invernali. Sono stato in azienda, l’ho vista al computer, è bellissima. A Sepang non ci aspettiamo che sia immediatamente perfetta quanto piuttosto di capire se abbiamo lavorato nella direzione giusta. Siamo molto realisti, il nostro obiettivo è quello di ridurre le distanze dai nostri avversari, passo dopo passo, lavorando in maniera logica. Poi da lì riuscire rifinire i dettagli per essere competitivi per provare a vincere. Una delle cose fondamentali per andare forte è riuscire a fare lavorare bene le gomme quindi insieme a Filippo abbiamo cercato di pensare a una moto che permettesse loro di rendere al meglio. Vedremo se ci siamo riusciti. Lavorare in Ducati mi piace, mi trovo bene perché si respira una bella atmosfera e ci crediamo tutti”.
Domani si prosegue con la conferenza stampa di Filippo Preziosi, Direttore Generale e Tecnico di Ducati Corse, che entrerà più in dettaglio sullo sviluppo della moto e sul programma tecnico.

Fans, snow and a brand-new 1199 Ducati Panigale Tricolore, displayed in the reception area of the Wrooom conference room at Madonna di Campiglio, welcomed the arrival of Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden for the twenty-second edition of the Wrooom Press Ski Meeting.

Tomorrow, the two Ducati riders will star in the press conference for the first day of the event, which symbolically kicks off the Italian motorsport season.
Wednesday will be the turn of Filippo Preziosi (Ducati Corse General Manager) and Stefano Domenicali (Ferrari Team Principal), and Thursday will be over to the Ferrari drivers. The event will conclude on Friday, with the spectacular kart and auto exhibition with the riders and drivers on the town's frozen lake.

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La redazione di Motorbike si è immaginata come saranno le future colorazioni della Ducati Panigale 1199.

Ducati Panigale 1199 Yellow

Ducati Panigale 1199 Black

Ducati Panigale 1199 White

Ducati Panigale 1199 AMG Carbon Edition

La Ducati 1199 Panigale è la moto più bella di EICMA 2011.
Lo hanno decretato oltre 13.800 appassionati che hanno partecipato al concorso indetto dalla rivista italiana “Motociclismo” che, come ogni anno, ha effettuato un sondaggio tra i visitatori attraverso una scheda da compilare direttamente in fiera. La nuova 1199 Panigale ha vinto il sondaggio in maniera netta e decisa, aggiudicandosi con il 53,4% dei voti seguita dalla MV Agusta F3 (17% dei voti) e la Husqvarna Nuda 900R (3%). Un ulteriore riconoscimento alle energie e alle risorse che Ducati sta dedicando al costante sviluppo di nuovi prodotti, che proprio nel 2011 ha ottenuto risultati commerciali record.

Malgrado una condizione di mercato e di economia difficile in tutto il mondo Ducati prosegue infatti la sua fase di crescita e di miglioramento, sia per quanto riguarda le quote di mercato che dei volumi di produzione e di vendita, a conferma della solidità dell’azienda che oggi più che mai si presenta ben strutturata e organizzata, pronta ad affrontare con serenità gli anni a venire. La premiazione si è svolta a conclusione del salone, presso lo stand della rivista Motociclismo, alla presenza del Dott. Pierfrancesco Caliari, (Segretario Generale Confindustira ANCMA_EICMA), del Dott. Piero Bacchetti (Presidente e AD Edisport Editoriale) e di Gianandrea Fabbro, il designer del Centro Stile Ducati che ha dato forma a questa stupenda moto.

Il premio alla “Moto più bella del Salone” è stato l’ ultimo atto di una intensa settimana di esposizione ed eventi che ha visto circa 500.000 visitatori affollare i padiglioni della Fiera di Milano-Rho, dando un positivo segnale di ripresa per un settore importante e trainante come quello del motociclo che sta particolarmente soffrendo l’attuale crisi economica.

Indiscussa regina della kermesse milanese è stata quindi decretata la nuova Ducati 1199 Panigale, un nuovo capitolo nella storia di questa iconica azienda, ancora una volta capace di offrire nuovi parametri di riferimento al motociclismo mondiale. Sin dall’apertura di EICMA 2011 l’area destinata a questa assoluta novità Ducati è stata presa d’assalto e un muro di folla ha fatto da costante cornice a questa nuova proposta, orgoglio dell’industria motociclistica italiana e segno tangibile della solidità e dell’energia che caratterizza questa casa motociclistica italiana.

Caratterizzata da un design unico e in grado di emozionare anche solo guardandola, questa nuova Ducati sarà prodotta nelle versioni 1199 Panigale, 1199 Panigale S e 1199 Panigale S Tricolore, vero e proprio trionfo e celebrazione del “made in Italy” che questa dinamica casa motociclistica ha voluto dedicare ai 150 anni dell’unità d’Italia, riservando l’eccellenza della tecnologia e delle performance a questa speciale ed accattivante livrea.

La Ducati 1199 Panigale sarà disponibile presso i concessionari Ducati dai primi mesi 2012, ad un prezzo, chiavi in mano, a partire da 19.190 euro.

1199 Panigale

Supreme performance, superlative technology, magnetic personality, enthralling design: on track or on road, there’s nothing to beat the 1199 Panigale.

This model is equipped with Marzocchi’s new 50mm lightweight aluminium front forks and Sachs rear suspension unit.

This version is also equipped with DTC, DQS, EBC and Power Mode combined into the Ducati Riding Modes.

The 1199 Panigale is available in standard configuration with optional ABS*

1199 Panigale S

The 1199 Panigale S is equipped with Öhlins suspension, both on the front and on the rear, that features the innovative Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES). Also made by Öhlins is the adjustable steering damper.

In addition, the model rolls on super lightweight forged and machined Marchesini wheels, a carbon fibre front mudguard, full LED headlights and an “Aero kit”, which consists of an additional wider fairing top-section.

The 1199 Panigale S is also equipped with DTC, DQS, EBC and Power Mode combined into the Ducati Riding Modes.

This model is available in standard configuration with optional ABS*.

(*Country specific)

1199 Panigale S Tricolore

The 1199 Panigale S Tricolore version celebrates the arrival of the new generation Superbike, fitted with ABS as standard and sporting the proud Italian colours of red, white and green.

The distinctive model carries the same equipment as the S version with the addition of the new generation DDA+ with special GPS lap time function as well as a titanium racing muffler kit* by Ducati Performance.

*Country specific

The new Ducati Superbike 1199 Panigale

The most extreme benchmark
The 1199 Panigale sets the most extreme benchmark ever and its arrival represents one of the most historic moments in Ducati’s incredible Superbike history.

Performance perfection
The Superquadro is the most powerful twin-cylinder production engine on the planet and is destined to power the new Ducati 1199 Panigale with absolute performance perfection.

1199 Panigale
Supreme performance, superlative technology, magnetic personality, enthralling design: on track or on road, there’s nothing to beat the 1199 Panigale.
This model is equipped with Marzocchi’s new 50mm lightweight aluminium front forks and Sachs rear suspension unit.
This version is also equipped with DTC, DQS, EBC and Power Mode combined into the Ducati Riding Modes.
The 1199 Panigale is available in standard configuration with optional ABS*.

The 2012 R encounters the first appearance of an current gearbox which is believed to provide a better actions.

Triumph's best-selling and class-leading ultra exposed, the Pace Double 1050 has only ever really didn't have one factor - a style of the unique.

But for 2012 even that's improved with the arrival of this - the company new Pace Double R.

The cycle, primarily an uprated edition of the normal device, follows the design of past Success R designs such as the Neighborhood Double and Daytona 675, by being outfitted with a selection of high-spec case factors.

The tires on the R are uprated too, now including race-spec, four-piston radial monobloc calipers from Brembo. Switchable ABS is still available as an alternative. Together, the uprated tires and tires are believed to provide a 5% improve in avoiding operation over the share edition.

Plus it gets a aesthetic tune for. So, the Pace Double R comes with top-notch, multi-adjustable Ohlins 43mm NIX30 forks, a related Ohlins TTX 36 impact at the raise plus, to reduce unsprung bodyweight, unique light and portable five-spoke cast aluminum PVM tires which together are 1.7kg light than the share things.

Cosmetically, the R is recognized from the normal cycle by a red completed raise subframe, red rim rim lines, a red 'R' emblem and is available in Clear White-colored or Phantom Dark-colored. No information on cost, but anticipate a top quality of € 700-800 over the normal cycle, or currently 10.925 €

Tragedia al secondo giro del GP di Malesia. Il 24enne italiano Marco Simoncelli cade e viene travolto. Inutili i soccorsi. Nel 2008 era stato Mondiale in 250

Al secondo giro una collisione fra la Honda dell'italiano Edwards e Rossi: Sic nel botto è colpito alla testa e resta fermo in pista e arriva al centro medico in stato di arresto cardiocircolatorio. I medici hanno disperatamente cercanto di salvarlo. 

Ciao Marco.

Concept with optimised riding dynamics.

One of the primary objectives pursued for the revised S 1000 RR model was to improve ridability by boosting thrust and enhancing the linearity and harmoniousness of the power and torque curves. The reconfigured throttle improves overall response.

The new, optimised design raises response sensitivity, tightens the twistgrip angle, and reduces the twisting force.

Suspension with improved handling and feedback.

The modifications to the new RR suspension have been instrumental in boosting its riding dynamics. For instance, the upside down fork and the spring strut feature a new internal structure, providing an even wider range of damping forces from comfort to performance.

Moreover, the suspension geometry has been modified with new values for the steering head angle, offset, position of the swing arm pivot, fork projection, and spring strut length to yield even better handling, steering accuracy, and feedback for the new S 1000 RR. This has required modifications to the main frame that also included enlarging the cross sectional area of the intake air guide through the steering head for greater air flow efficiency. This package of suspension optimisations is rounded off by an adjustable mechanical steering damper.

Instrument cluster with new functions.

The engine speed display has been redesigned for better readability. In addition, the display can now be dimmed and provides more functions. For instance, the lap timer can now present “Best lap in progress”, and if required, “Speedwarning” can inform the rider when he exceeds a particular speed.

Refined design and new colours.

The new S 1000 RR not only benefits from the advanced developments for the engine, suspension, and cockpit. It has also gained yet another step ahead in terms of design. The tail section now presents a considerably leaner look. There have been some discrete changes to the asymmetrical side panels, and the centre airbox cover now sports side aperture grilles. On the top part of the panels, a new, telling identifying feature takes the form of two winglets that enhance the aerodynamic qualities.

In the most sporting colour combination of Racing red and Alpine white, the RR exudes power and speed even when it is stationary, whereas plain Bluefire lends it a decidedly extravagant look.

Sporty dynamics is conveyed by Sapphire black metallic, and in BMW Motorrad Motorsport colours, the new S 1000 RR testifies to its direct relationship with BMW Motorrad Motorsport. The distinctive RR logo has been slightly modified.

Additional visual accents take the form of wheels painted in glossy black and the red spring in the central strut. The matching swing arm either presents an anodised coating or is kept in black.

Also the ergonomics has been improved in the form of new heel plates for the rider. The stabilisers on the passenger footrests have now been designed for a leaner look.

Extended range of optional extra and special equipment.

For individualising the new S 1000 RR, BMW Motorrad is expanding its range of optional extras and special equipment ex works with a number of attractive features. Riders with a particularly sporty bent can now equip their RR with an HP titanium exhaust system (with or without ABE) or the HP race data logger. Also the heated grips offering two levels and fitted as optional extra can take the bite out of the early morning run on the racetrack or longer rides in cold weather.

The new features at a glance

• Optimised torque curve for improved ridability.
• Expansion from two to three performance curves (one each for Rain and Sport modes and an additional one for Race and Slick modes); Rain mode now 120 kW (163 hp).
• Reconfigured throttle for enhanced response (particularly gentle and sensitive acceleration in Rain mode, and immediately direct and spontaneous response in Sport, Race, and Slick modes).
• Reduced twisting force and tighter twistgrip angle.
• Smaller secondary ratio for boosted thrust.
• Refined tuning between Race ABS and Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
• Enlarged cross sectional area of the intake air guide through the steering head for greater air flow efficiency.
• Better handling, steering accuracy, and feedback.
• Revised spring elements for an even wider range of damping forces.
• Suspension geometry modified with new values for the steering head angle, offset, position of the swing arm pivot, fork projection, and spring strut length.
• New mechanical steering damper adjustable over ten levels.
• Forged and milled fork bridge in a new design and with a smaller offset.
• Revised design with a leaner tail section, redesigned side panels, centre airbox cover with side aperture grilles, and winglets.
• For new colour variants: plain Racing Red with Alpine white, Bluefire, Sapphire black metallic, BMW Motorrad Motorsport colours.
• Revised RR logo.
• New heel plates and leaner stabilisers on the passenger footrests.
• Redesigned LCD engine speed display for better readability and with five dimming levels.
• Instrument cluster with the new functions “Best lap in progress” and “Speedwarning”; deactivation of “Lamp” fault message when headlamp or number plate carrier removed.
• Catalytic converters relocated, so no heat shield necessary.
• Expansion to the optional extras and special equipment ex works.

Scarcely two years after the launch in 2009, BMW Motorrad is now presenting the revised model of this successful supersports bike, now with many optimised details. The primary objectives were even greater riding precision and agility, a punchier power buildup, and a more sensitive response. The revised model of the S 1000 RR has incorporated quite a few feedback reports from national super stock races.

Like its predecessor, the new RR knows no compromise, providing the highest level of sporting character and riding dynamics. The convincing features of the new S 1000 RR are its improved handling with absolute riding stability, supreme engine performance with perfect everyday practicality, and a resounding dynamic performance. The highest level of active safety is safeguarded by the most advanced brake system today on the market, the BMW Motorrad Race ABS. When accelerating, the rider is supported by the Dynamic Traction Control system DTC. Both of these systems have been optimised for the perfect interaction.

There have been no changes to the superior engine power of 142 kW (193 hp) with a weight of only 204 kilograms including 90% fuel (206.5 weight with Race ABS).

Casey Stoner su Honda si laurea campione del mondo nella classe MotoGp 2012, grazie l'infortunio di Lorenzo rimediato nella caduta del warm up mattutino. Bella gara per Marco Simoncelli (San Carlo Honda Gresini) e Andrea Dovizioso (Repsol Honda) che hanno chiuso la gara a 2 secondi da Stoner.
Per Valentino Rossi ennesima caduta, annata da dimenticare per il Pesarese.

1 STONER C.Repsol Honda TeamLap 27
2 SIMONCELLI M.San Carlo Honda Gresini+2.210
3 DOVIZIOSO A.Repsol Honda Team+2.454
4 PEDROSA D.Repsol Honda Team+13.160
5 EDWARDS C.Monster Yamaha Tech 3+30.886
6 DE PUNIET R.Pramac Racing Team+48.800
7 HAYDEN N.Ducati Team+1:16.314
8 ELIAS T.LCR Honda MotoGP+2.752
9 CAPIROSSI L.Pramac Racing Team+6.762
10 ABRAHAM K.Cardion AB Motoracing+42.717

Il prezzo di listino della Ducati Streetfighter 848 2012 è di 12.592 euro chiavi in mano.

Il nuovo Streetfighter 848 è puro divertimento motociclistico grazie alla sofisticata combinazione tra il motore 848 Testastretta 11° e il telaio con geometria derivata direttamente dalla Superbike.
Controllo, precisione e divertimento fanno dello Streetfighter 848 il nuovo oggetto del desiderio.

Grazie alla sua reattività ai comandi del pilota assicurata dal nuovo telaio, alla soluzione Testastretta 11° che rende l'erogazione della potenza fluida e sempre gestibile, alla posizione di guida dominante che trasmette sicurezza e al Ducati Traction Control che vigila sulla potenza, questa nuova interpretazione dello stile fighter è pronta per conquistare tutti con la sua supremazia.

La cultura streetfighter nasce nelle periferie urbane del Nord Europa tra la fine degli anni ‘70 e gli anni ‘80. Il movimento Café Racer, partendo da moto tradizionali, le trasformava in supersportive. La loro evoluzione è passata dall’eliminare le carene da moto sportive, per poi equipaggiarle con manubri più alti, customizzarle e creare naked “esagerate” dalle prestazioni elevate.

La passione di Ducati nel realizzare le Superbike più belle e più vincenti di sempre, unita al desiderio di creare moto icone nella categoria naked, ha generato un mix di adrenalina pura e stile italiano. Lo Streetfighter è caratterizzato da un motore estremamente performante e godibile, una ciclistica aggressiva e un’elettronica avanzata, dove ogni singolo particolare è stato lasciato a vista per essere goduto, apprezzato e ostentato con orgoglio. Lo Streetfighter nasce per combattere e mettere al tappeto qualsiasi rivale. Sei pronto a combattere?

L'848 Testastretta 11° è un capolavoro di progettazione Desmodromica in grado di erogare 132 CV @ 10.000 giri e una coppia di 9,5 kgm @ 9.500 giri. Derivato direttamente dal motore Testastretta Evoluzione della Superbike di media cilindrata 848EVO sfrutta la tecnologia Testastretta 11°, già apprezzata su Multistrada e Diavel, che consente di avere una curva di coppia piena già dai bassi regimi. L'angolo d'incrocio delle valvole è stato ridotto da 37° a 11°, rispetto al propulsore del Testastretta Evoluzione, per garantire la massima fluidità di marcia e il più ampio campo di utilizzo, oltre a ridurre consumi ed emissioni.
Il Testastretta 11° gode di un programma di manutenzione con registrazione delle valvole ogni 24.000 Km.

La Brutale R 1090 è proposta in 3 colorazioni su base bianca, rossa e nera al prezzo di 13.990€ e sarà disponibile presso la rete di vendita ufficiale da fine settembre 2011.

Il successo della nuova generazione di Brutale è sotto gli occhi di tutti, grazie al suo design inconfondibile, a una tecnologia unica al mondo e a prestazioni da primato. MV Agusta Brutale, non solo si è imposta sul mercato come moto elitaria ed eccezionale, ma è anche riuscita a diventare un autentico successo commerciale.

Ad affiancare la Brutale 920, entry level della gamma MV Agusta 4 cilindri, nasce la nuova Brutale R 1090 per essere ancora di più il riferimento del mercato.

Il motore è il performante quattro cilindri a valvole radiali da 1078 cc. Il propulsore di maggiore cilindrata mai prodotto da MV Agusta, un vulcano di potenza e coppia con i suoi 106 kW (144 cv) a 10.300 giri.

Il telaio misto traliccio e alluminio si unisce a una forcella Marzocchi USD da 50 mm e a un monoammortizzatore Sachs che hanno una taratura dedicata per la Brutale R 1090 in grado di assecondare la guida più sportiva, anche in pista. Per questo Brutale R 1090 utilizza un pneumatico posteriore da 190/55 - ZR17 che assicura grip ottimale anche durante l’utilizzo estremo.

Nuove mappe per la gestione del motore ottimizzano l’erogazione e anche il controllo di trazione dotato di 8 livelli specifici per questo nuovo modello.

Brutale R 1090 è sportiva, ma anche ospitale con il passeggero, grazie alla sella di dimensioni maggiori realizzata in un unico pezzo con una raffinata cucitura che la rende ancora più pregiata.

La Brutale R 1090 si presenta come la moto perfetta per chi è in cerca di un piacere di guida inarrivabile, di prestazioni esuberanti e contraddistinta da un design unico.

onda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced its development of an engine with enhanced durability, quietness, and fuel economy. The engine is developed for next-generation 125cc scooters and accommodates an advanced idle stop system for motorcycles. Fuel economy is approximately 25%* better than that of conventional engines for scooters with the same displacement. This liquid-cooled, 125cc, 4-stroke, single-cylinder engine incorporates a wide range of low-friction technologies while packing its lighter weight in a more compact body.

This new engine will be mounted on a variety of 125cc scooters to be sold in many countries around the world and is planned for global rollout starting from 2012.

This new engine was developed to offer highly convenient and attractive 125cc scooters, a vehicle used by many customers for commuting in various countries around the world, while reducing CO2 emissions on a global scale, through the further enhancement of engine performance and fuel economy.

Development was performed to meet these requirements:

• Powerful output and greater durability with an emphasis on practicality
• Excellent fuel efficiency suitable for the next-generation global-standard engine
• Contributing to CO2 reduction on a worldwide scale by applying to global models
• Realizing an affordable price

To achieve the engine's excellent fuel efficiency, Honda incorporated a broad spectrum of new ideas to thoroughly reduce friction. Low-friction technologies such as an offset cylinder and a roller rocker arm are supplemented by such techniques as intelligent control to lessen friction during power generation and the first adoption of a shell-type needle bearing for the rocker arm shaft.

Adoption of a wide range of low-friction technologies

• Offset cylinder reduces friction caused by the contact between the sliding piston and the cylinder.
• Piston weight has been thoroughly reduced through CAE analysis.
• A spiny sleeve with minute spines on the outer surface of the cylinder sleeve has been adopted to reduce oil consumption and improve cooling performance.
• A shell-type needle bearing is used for the rocker arm shaft to reduce friction.
• Smaller and lighter rollers together with an optimized cam profile and valve spring load.
• Radiator core with high cooling efficiency has been adopted (approximately 1.5 times the efficiency of current models). This enables a smaller and lighter cooling fan on the back of the radiator and reduces friction loss by approximately 30%.
• Transmission oil capacity is reduced 25% compared to current 125cc engines through modifications inside the transmission case in order to lower the oil agitation loss.
• Bearings for each of the three axes in the transmission unit are exclusively designed according to the load received, resulting in an optimal set of specifications that lessen the rolling resistance inside the bearings. Friction loss has been cut by approximately 20% compared to the current engine (when running at 50km/h).

Excellent combustion efficiency

• A compact combustion chamber design incorporates burning velocity and cooling performance suitable for an engine that emphasizes torque characteristics in the rpm ranges actually used by a 125cc scooter.
• The air intake port connection to the combustion chamber has been redesigned into a smoother shape that does not impede the flow of the fuel-air mixture.
• Optimal ignition timing is set due to improved knocking resistance created by a highly efficient radiator and a water jacket that efficiently cools the combustion chamber.

Intelligent electronically-controlled ACG starter

• Smooth and remarkably quiet start has been realized through an electronically-controlled ACG starter, which serves as both a self-starter and a dynamo. An advanced idle stop system has also been realized.

Intelligent electronic control improves fuel efficiency through the reduction of friction during power generation.

• A swing-back that returns the crank to its position before air intake is electronically controlled for easy restart, while a decompression mechanism mitigates cranking resistance arising from compression during engine start.

Excellent transmission efficiency

• A wide-ratio continuously variable transmission with V-belt (V-Matic) utilizes a drive belt made of newly developed high-elasticity rubber. Both excellent fuel efficiency and quietness are achieved through the efficient transmission of driving force by optimizing the lateral pressure applied to the belt, along with the durability of the belt.

Jonathan Rea (Castrol Honda) rode to a superb victory in race one at Imola in front of 78,000 sun-kissed fans before he had to endure the disappointment of having to retire from a winning position in race two, when his machine’s battery connector broke and started switching his machine off and on. Championship leader Carlos Checa (Ducati) won race two and only missed out on clinching the championship by three points, with two rounds left to run.

Rea’s race one win came at the first time of asking for his Honda CBR1000RR’s new ride-by-wire throttle system, which Rea had used to such great effect from day one at a largely resurfaced and consistently warm and dry Imola. Starting from second place on the grid in each 21-lap race, Rea (who had headed up the timesheets on day one) had to ride hard to hold off the advancing Noriyuki Haga (Aprilia) in race one, with Checa nine seconds behind.

This was Jonathan’s second win of the season, which has been beset by frequent and painful injury for a time, and he moved back up to 11th in the overall rankings, despite his race two DNF.

Ruben Xaus (Castrol Honda) missed out on Superpole qualifying and thus had much hard work to do in the two races, fighting in the pack and finishing race one 17th and an improved 11th in race two. Starting from 20th place on the grid, he took five points in the second leg today and is 16th overall.

Foret Wins From Lowes On Day Of Championship Drama

Fabien Foret (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) got himself back into the championship fight at Imola with a gutsy ride through the field that was eventually rewarded with his first win of the year, and a return to second place in the championship.

In front of a large weekend crowd at the classic Imola circuit he was followed home at close quarters by Sam Lowes (Parkalgar Honda), who was only 0.166 seconds behind after 19 intense laps. Foret took a new lap record of 1m, 52.059s, on lap 11, when he had clear track in front of him. Even more importantly he is now a reduced 35 points behind championship leader Chaz Davies (Yamaha), with a possible 50 points up for grabs at the final two rounds. Davies led the race all the way, but his machine failed on lap 15, when Foret was still in fourth place.

Lowes took the lead when Davies retired, but he could not hold back the remarkable pace of Foret, although he continued to try and pass the French rider even at the final chicane. Lowes is fifth in the championship standings, 11 points from fourth, with two points scoring rounds remaining.

Third place at Imola went to Broc Parkes (Kawasaki), but young Frenchman Florian Marino (Hannspree Ten Kate Honda) posted a great result to take fourth, his best career performance so far. It brought him back into the top eight places overall, after holding second for much of the race.

James Ellison (Bogdanka PTR Honda) overcame some challenging periods in qualifying to go from 15th on the grid to sixth, although he was unable to fight for the podium place of second he had earned at the previous round in Germany.

Miguel Praia (Parkalgar Honda) was another finding his feet on raceday, coming back from 19th on the grid to an equal best of eighth in the race, his third eighth place this year. He is 13th overall, one place behind the luckless Robbin Harms (Harms Benjan Racing Honda) who once more scored no points after such a strong early season run of form.

Gino Rea (Step Racing Honda) was a faller on the very last lap, dropping from a podium finish to an eventual 11th, having picked up his bike and restarted. Having lost time in qualifying after a crash early on Friday, Rea was ninth off the grid and is now also ninth in the championship standings.

Pawel Szkopek (Bogdanka PTR Honda) was 12th and one of six Honda riders who filled 11th to 16th places.

Balazs Nemeth (Team Hungary Toth Honda) and Alexander Lundh (Cresto Guide Honda) no scored today but Imre Toth (Team Hungary Toth Honda) took the last point on offer, in 15th place.

No fewer than 11 riders failed to finish, including Championship leader Davies, who now has 171 points to Foret’s 136. Two rounds remain, the next at Magny Cours next weekend, with race day on Sunday October 2.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced the development of a new motorcycle engine with powerful torque in the low- to mid-speed range and top class, fuel-efficient environment performance, along with a second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission. This new engine is a liquid-cooled, 700cc, 4-stroke, in-line, 2-cylinder engine that fits into the mid-class range (displacement between 500 and 750cc) popular in Europe. Fuel economy exceeds 27km/L,*1 best in the mid-class range, and achieves an approximate 40%*2 improvement over other sports models in its class.

This new engine can be coupled with a newly developed lightweight, compact second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission, featuring a smooth, direct feel and excellent transmission efficiency, in addition to a 6-speed manual transmission.

This new engine will be mounted on three models based on different concepts, which are slated for exhibition at EICMA2011(69th International Motorcycle Exhibition) to be held in November in Milan, Italy.

Honda developed this new motorcycle engine in order to realize a set of motorcycles based on its new concept of offering outstanding fuel efficiency in the mid-class while delivering powerful, throbbing torque in the normal range for touring and urban riding.

Development was performed to meet these requirements:

• An engine that is easy to handle with plentiful torque in the range normally used, and which also delivers a pleasant, throbbing feel during sporty rides
• Top-class, fuel-efficient environmental performance best suited for the next-generation mid-class engine
• A lightweight, compact design that allows more freedom in the body layout and provides highly convenient space
• Honda determined the engine layout after examining a variety of engine types from numerous perspectives and decided on an in-line, 700cc, 2-cylinder engine with a 62º forward lean (cylinder assembly angle). To meet a wide variety of uses, two transmissions can be coupled with this engine: the second generation of Honda's innovative Dual Clutch Transmission, and a 6-speed manual transmission.

*1
^{WMTC mode (Honda calculations)}
*2
^{Honda calculations
= Main Features of the New Engine =}

Higher combustion efficiency and lower friction

A wide variety of low friction technologies that aid better fuel economy are incorporated: To improve fuel efficiency through better-controlled combustion while realizing a powerful ride in the low- to mid-rpm ranges, the bore-stroke ratio is set at 73×80mm. An ideal combustion chamber shape and optimum valve timing also contribute to achieve stable combustion. Resin coating is applied to the pistons, and lightweight aluminum material is employed for the first time in a motorcycle in the friction-reducing roller rocker arm.

Uneven-interval firing and uniaxial primary balancer
Adoption of uneven-interval firing with a 270° phase crank and uniaxial primary balancer help realize an engine with a pleasant throbbing feel that also reduces vibration.
Branch intake port inside the cylinder head, valve timing

The layout of a branch intake port inside the cylinder head was chosen to have only one intake channel for two cylinders. This design creates deliberate interference between the two cylinders' intake processes to achieve precisely calculated changes to combustion timing.
In addition, to change the valve timing between the two in-line cylinders with one camshaft, the specifications provide for a cam with two timing routines for the intake valve. Through these measures, subtle combustion changes can be generated to give the engine a delightful, pulsating feel.

Exhaust emission purification system
To maximize the efficiency of exhaust emission purification so that the catalyzer, a three-way catalyst, can be started promptly after the engine starts, the catalyzer has been placed directly beneath the exhaust ports. This design lets the combustion gas pass through the catalyst while the gas is still hot. In addition, a combination of measures, including the adoption of an electronically-controlled fuel injection system (PGM-FI),*3 allows the engine to achieve an emission level approximately half the European emission standards (Euro 3).*4 The resulting environmental performance is ranked among the top in the world without compromising powerful, smooth output.
*3
^{PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection System) is a Honda registered trademark}
*4
^{Honda calculations}

Second-generation Dual Clutch Transmission
The Dual Clutch Transmission, developed for the first time by Honda for motorcycles and installed on the VFR1200F, is now lighter and more compact through a simplified hydraulic circuit and other design enhancements. A learning function has been added to each selected running mode to detect a variety of riding environments from city streets to mountain passes and automatically performs the most suitable shift control. Although it is an automatic transmission, the Dual Clutch Transmission delivers fuel economy on a par with manual transmissions as a result of its excellent transmission efficiency.

Honda officially unveils the 2012 CBR1000RR Fireblade, celebrating 20 years since it was first launched as the CBR900RR in 1991.

The new machine was revealed simultaneously at two world class racing events: the Le Mans 24 hours round of the Endurance World Championship in France, and the eleventh round of the 2011 World Superbike Championship in Imola, Italy.

On hand to unveil the new machine to race fans were John McGuinness, racing at Le Mans for the Honda TT Legends Team, and Jonathan Rea, rider for the Castrol Honda Team in the World Superbike Championship.

John McGuinness, winner of 17 races at the Isle of Man TT, commented:
"I've got a real soft spot for the Fireblade. I've ridden it in many different racing events over the years and had a lot of success with it. In fact, some of the most memorable moments of my career have been on the Fireblade - from TT wins to this year in the World Endurance Championship. Unveiling the new model here at Le Mans is pretty exciting and I'm honoured that I was chosen to do it. It's great that all the thousands of racing and Fireblade fans around the world will now have the chance to see it for real."

Jonathan Rea, rider for the Castrol Honda World Superbike team:
"I feel like I have grown up with the Fireblade. It's such an iconic machine and it's an unbelievable feeling being the man to actually reveal the latest version. It really looks fantastic and I can't wait to get my hands on it."

Hirofumi Fukunaga, LPL for the 2012 CBR1000RR Fireblade:
"This is a model allowing all super sports bike lovers, including the most experienced, to savour the joy of owning the CBR1000RR Fireblade, while at the same time feeling more fun in sporty riding and more joy of riding than ever before, whether it be on winding roads or at a circuit."
(LPL = Large Project Leader, leader of model development)

2012 CBR1000RR overview: 

• New styling package
• New nose, layered main fairing and a tail section bring a more aggressive and a dynamic look to the 2012 CBR1000RR.

New front and rear suspension
Introduced for the first time on a production motorcycle, an advanced new rear shock uses a double-tube design to ensure smoother and more accurate response, superior damping and improved traction. The 2012 CBR1000RR also features inverted 43mm telescopic front forks with Showa's Big Piston technology, offering improved damping, increased front tyre grip and better stability under braking.

Revised fuel injection settings
New fuel injection settings for the 999cc inline-4 engine, make it even smoother and easier to use, particularly at smaller throttle openings.

New 12-spoke wheels
Stunning 12-spoke cast aluminium wheels provide more consistent rigidity to work with the new forks to deliver improved handling.

Enhanced instrumentation
The new CBR1000RR Fireblade uses a multi-function LCD instrument panel now with lap timer, gear position indicator, plus tachometer with 4 modes of display.

Con il sesto ed il nono tempo nelle qualifiche di oggi pomeriggio sul circuito di Aragon i piloti del Team San Carlo Honda Gresini, Marco Simoncelli ed Hiroshi Aoyama, scatteranno dalla seconda e terza fila sullo schieramento di partenza per la gara di domani. Prove nel complesso positive per “Super Sic” anche se il lavoro da fare in prospettiva gara non sarà certamente facile per poter avvicinarsi ai due battistrada Stoner e Pedrosa e comunque avere delle buone possibilità per inserirsi nella lotta per un posto sul podio. La fiducia non manca e la voglia di far bene trasmette le giuste motivazioni. Positivo anche il nono posto di Aoyama che ha ritrovato feeling e fiducia nella moto.

GRAN PREMIO DE ARAGÓN - MotoGP Qualifying Practice Classification 2011
 

Marco Simoncelli (6° 1’ 49” 528) “Sicuramente potevo fare meglio se nel mio giro veloce non avessi trovato sulla mia strada Pedrosa che era appena entrato in pista. Peccato! Con la seconda gomma morbida non sono poi riuscito a migliorarmi a causa di un paio di errori. I primi due sono un po’ lontani però nella lotta per il terzo posto con gli interventi che abbiamo in programma possiamo inserirci. Il problema della perdita di grip delle gomme dopo alcuni giri che avevamo riscontrato ieri oggi è leggermente migliorato, ma questo credo sia un problema comune per tutti. Quello che ci penalizza sicuramente, al momento, sono i consumi dovuti anche alla mia taglia “oversize” e pertanto cercheremo di trovare le soluzioni che non mi mettano particolarmente in difficoltà per la gara. Ho fiducia nei ragazzi e sono certo che faranno un buon lavoro per domani.“

Hiroshi Aoyama (9° 1’ 49” 813) ”Sono felice per il nono posto conquistato nelle qualifiche di oggi perché è la miglior posizione acquisita, quest’anno, sullo schieramento di partenza. Ci siamo migliorati sensibilmente rispetto alle prove di questa mattina ed abbiamo lavorato bene nel pomeriggio trovando un buon bilanciamento e feeling con la moto. Naturalmente c’è differenza tra le qualifiche e la gara ma sono fiducioso di poter disputare un buon Gran Premio. Adesso voglio concentrarmi per la gara e fare con il Team le scelte giuste per domani anche in previsione delle temperature più basse dell’asfalto. ”

Fausto Gresini “Complessivamente è stata una giornata positiva. Forse Marco avrebbe potutto migliorare la sua posizione se fosse riuscito a fare un giro veloce “pulito”. Così non è stato ed è un vero peccato. In ogni caso, primi due a parte, Marco ha un buon paso gara e con alcuni piccoli interventi che faranno i tecnici e verificheranno domani mattina nel corso del warm up sono convinto che potrà inserirsi nella lotta per un posto sul podio. Bene anche Hiroshi che ha disputato la sua miglior qualifica dell’anno ed è sicuramente increscita. Deve continuare a credere nelle sue potenzialità e potrà disputare un eccellente finale di stagione.”