July was a special wet month in Belgium, but between the rain showers we still have some motorcycle news that you should definitely read.
Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss Edition
Ducati is not averse to releasing a special version of an existing model, including this month. A Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss edition was presented.
The Ducati Panigale V2 is presented in a beautiful, subtle color scheme with the added value of Öhlins suspension at the front and rear, a carbon-titanium exhaust cover and here and there number plates that indicate why this bike is so special.
There is no mention of the number of motorcycles produced, although we bet that this Duc can score quite high.
BMW R18 Transcontinental and Bagger
With the launch of the Pan America, Harley has clearly ventured into Beemer territory, and BMW responded cautiously with the R 18 cruiser. Now they call their R 18 Transcontinental a Grand American Tourer in no uncertain terms. According to the same press release, the Bagger is also fully aimed at the American market, where these models are very popular.
The base remains identical, 1802xx boxer with 91hp and 158Nm of torque. But in addition to the analog clocks that we know from the R18, there is also room for a 10.5" TFT screen in the batman-like top fairing.
In addition, the two models have Dynamic Cruise Control on board, just like the RT, and Active Cruise Control as an option. That radar system works well, so cruising is assured.
Furthermore, under the classic design with flashy color schemes, there is still a mass of technology hidden. All lighting naturally uses LED technology, and cornering lighting is also on board. The driver has three driving modes and all forms of electronically controlled ABS are on board.
Triumph to build cross and enduro bikes
Triumph surprised everyone with their announcement that they will focus on building cross and enduro bikes.
This move represents an important moment for Triumph and the MX and Enduro worlds, as the brand simultaneously announces an all-new factory racing program and its ambition to compete at the top of both the motocross and enduro championships.
To further reinforce their commitment to race and win at the highest level of the sport, they have recruited international motocross legend Ricky Carmichael and 5-time World Enduro Champion, Iván Cervantes, who clearly state that they mean it.
The official timeline of the unveiling and launch of the engines will be announced in the coming months.
Aprilia Tuareg 660 introduced
At the last minute of this month, Aprilia presented their new Tuareg 660, an off road / trail bike using their well-known 660 twin.
The third offspring of the platform is specified for a top power of 80 hp and a maximum torque of 70 Nm, with Aprilia claiming that the twin should be stronger in the lower and middle area.
Of course, just like the Tuono and RS 660, the Tuareg is equipped with Aprilia's APRC technology, which consists of 4 driving modes on the Tuareg, 2 of which can be adjusted with one especially for off-road driving.
The APRC includes traction control, cruise control, power delivery and electronic engine braking, all accessible via a 5" TFT color screen.
The motorcycle frame is a steel truss tubular frame, with a clearly off-road oriented suspension. The block is mounted at 6 points in the frame and will therefore probably be included as a load-bearing part in the construction. Aprilia claims a dry weight of 187 kilograms and states that the Tuareg 660 sets an industry benchmark for lightness.