GasGas is preparing to launch a new model called the RX 450F Replica that we believe will be based on the machine Sam Sunderland rode to victory in the 2022 Dakar Rally.

The RX 450F Replica model name appears on a recently updated list of vehicles approved by the Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt, Germany’s federal motor transport authority. The name is similar, though not a perfect match, for the RC 450F ridden by Sunderland and his teammate Daniel Sanders (who was no slouch himself in winning three stages) in the Dakar Rally.

Despite the variation in the name, we suspect the RX 450F Replica is indeed the rally bike because it is listed with similar information to KTM’s own 450 Rally Replica, and the RC 450F race bike was essentially a rebadged version of the orange bike.

KTM has offered a rally replica for a few years now, as has Husqvarna, with its version dubbed the FR 450 Rally. With GasGas victorious at this year’s Dakar Rally, it seems logical that Pierer Mobility’s red brand would also get the replica treatment.

The German type approval document doesn’t provide many details about the RC 450F Replica, except that it is powered by a 449cc engine, has a single seat and is classified as an enduro motorcycle. KTM, however, revealed the 2023 450 Rally Replica in June, and we can expect the bikes to be nearly identical. That means the same 449cc SOHC Single, rally racing gear ratios, WP suspension, Akrapovič exhaust, and secondary fuel tank that doubles as the subframe.

The post GasGas RX 450F Replica Confirmed in Type Approval Documents appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

 

Kevin Benavides

STAGE: 2nd FINAL: 2nd

We finished the stage with Quintanilla which meant that I finished second overall. I go home very happy after winning three of the six stages. It was a very good race for me without any falls. The navigation mishaps were due to errors in the roadbook. I think I was never able to regain the time I lost on the first day, but I did well and battled hard every day to get a one-two for Honda. Congratulations to Joan and the entire Monster Energy Honda Team for the race.

 

 

Paulo Goncalves

STAGE: 10th FINAL: 12ve

It was a difficult race for me. The first day I lost 45 minutes, in addition to falling and lost any options of doing better. Physically I didn’t feel that good and I preferred to ride at a measured pace to not make any mistakes and aggravate the injuries that I am still recovering from. Today was a beautiful stage, with a fast pace out in the dunes. I felt pretty good, especially with the bike, which has worked perfectly on all types of terrain. Congratulations to our team-mates who finished first and second in the race.

 

 

Joan Barreda

STAGE: 5th FINAL: 1st

I am very happy to be back winning races again, especially because we can now forget about a year of injuries. There is still work to do to get back to 100% physically and be able to ride my way, without pain. That’s the way I like to do it: return to the competition like that, have a great race and finish with a win. This will serve as great motivation to keep pushing and reach the highest level by the end of the year.

 

 

Ricky Brabec

STAGE: 8th FINAL: 5th

It’s the final stage of an eventful rally which had some highs and lows. The rally started off well with a great first stage, and then there were some good ones up until the fourth stage. That was where many people all had the same problems with the roadbook. I managed, like some of the others, to make it through to the end with a few mistakes; but this is rallying where everyone makes a few errors. I lost time that day, but in the final stage I was able to make it up and ended up finishing just forty seconds off the podium. For me, that’s awesome and a confidence booster. I’m not totally happy with the overall result, but I’m pleased with the individual stages. Thanks to all.

 

 

José Ignacio Cornejo

STAGE: 6th FINAL: 8th

In this final stage we finished well and I was able to put yesterday’s bad stage behind me. I made a few mistakes. In general it was a good rally, we improved the speed race by race and so we keep moving up positions as the season goes on. It’s getting better and better and I’m happy about that.

 

 

Raul Castells

Monster Energy Honda Team Manager

We are very happy with an outcome that could hardly have been better here at the Merzouga Rally, with such a high level of participation. First and second places are incredible. We are positively surprised by the powerful return of Joan Barreda, whom we congratulate for the victory and who battled hard in each stage. Likewise we also congratulate Kevin Benavides, who has clinched second place winning three specials. We have seen the high level of riding from our team and although some had some issues with the navigation, they have fought hard to be at the top. Navigation has been an important factor and was very difficult in all the stages. It is very important to train and prepare the season well. We are pleased and we want to congratulate the whole team for their effort and results. We will continue to strive to achieve the best results.

Final standings Merzouga Rally 2018

Pos.	Rider	Num	Nation	Team	Constructor	Time/Gap
1	Barreda Joan		SPA	Monster Energy Honda Team	Honda	13:28’19
2	Benavides Kevin		ARG	Monster Energy Honda Team	Honda	+6’10
3	Quintanilla Pablo		CHI	Husqvarna Factory Rally Team	Husqvarna	+11’25
4	Caimi Franco		ARG	Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team	Yamaha	+18’49
5	Brabec Ricky		USA	Monster Energy Honda Team	Honda	+20’04
6	Price Toby		AUS	Red Bull KTM Rally Factory Team	KTM	+21’04
7	Pedrero Joan		SPA	Sherco TVS Rally Factory	Sherco	+29’18
8	Cornejo José Ignacio		CHI	Monster Energy Honda Team	Honda	+42’37
9	Svitko Stefan		SLO	Slovnaft Team	KTM	+53’00
10	Short Andrew		USA	Husqvarna Factory Rally Team	Husqvarna	+1:01’25
11	Duplessis Martín		ARG	Sherco TVS Rally Factory	Sherco	+1:02’28
12	Goncalves Paulo		POR	Monster Energy Honda Team	Honda	+1:09’07
13	Botturi Alessandro		ITA	Botturi Racing	Yamaha	+1:17’32
14	Sanz Laia		SPA	KTM Factory Racing Team	KTM	+1:55’00
15	Mena Oriol		SPA	Hero Motorsports Team Rally	Hero	+2:24’49

The post Monster Energy Honda Team Scores a One-Two Victory at the Merzouga Rally appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

March 29, 2018 – Delivering the goods when it mattered the most, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Pablo Quintanilla has earned victory at the opening round of the 2018 FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship – the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in the United Arab Emirates. Powered by his Husqvarna FR 450 Rally machine the Chilean rally star ensured a positive first step towards successfully defending his Cross-Country Rallies World Championship title.

Remaining focused on his well calculated plan of attack, Pablo put in the fifth best time on Thursday’s fifth and final stage. Retaining his lead in the overall classification, the Husqvarna rider wrapped up the 2018 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge five minutes and 11 seconds ahead of his nearest rival.

Racing through the heat, long stages and demanding off-piste sections of the Desert Challenge, in starting the new season in the best possible way, Pablo now looks ahead to what promises to be an exciting season of international rally competition.

The Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rally team will be back in action at the 2018 Merzouga Rally on April 15/20. Following his winning result in the United Arab Emirates Quintanilla will be joined at the Merzouga Rally in Morocco by his Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team partner Andrew Short.

Pablo Quintanilla: “I’m really happy to get the win in Abu Dhabi and it’s been a fantastic start to the new season. This year’s Desert Challenge has been a really tough race from the beginning until the end. During these last few days we battled through extreme heat and the massive sand dunes of the area. There were many high-speed tracks and lots of off-piste sections where navigation was crucial. We also had some great fights with my main competitors and I’m happy I came out on top. I would like to thank all the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team for the amazing job they did during this week. They are always by my side and this helps me achieve the results I want. It feels good to start the season with a victory and I’m looking forward to the events to come.”

2018 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge – Stage 5 Provisional Classification

1. Matthias Walkner (KTM) 02:46:40
2. Kevin Benavides (Honda) 02:46:40.05
3. Sam Sunderland (KTM) 02:46:59
4. Toby Price (KTM) 02:47:26
5. Pablo Quintanilla (Husqvarna) 02:48:05
6. Paulo Goncalves (Honda) 02:48:41

2018 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge – Final Overall Standings

1. Pablo Quintanilla (Husqvarna) 16:51:11
2. Sam Sunderland (KTM) 16:56:22
3. Kevin Benavides (Honda) 16:59:45
4. Matthias Walkner (KTM) 17:00:47
5. Paulo Goncalves (Honda) 17:09:46
6. Ricky Brabec (Honda) 17:11:57

The post Pablo Quintanilla Claims Victory at Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

March 15, 2018 – Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Pablo Quintanilla will re-start his 2018 international rally racing campaign on March 24 to 29 at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge in the United Arab Emirates. Working hard towards returning to full competitive fitness following a foot injury sustained during the closing stages of the Dakar Rally, Pablo’s teammate Andrew Short is expected to join the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing squad at the 2018 Merzouga Rally in mid-April.

With the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge playing host to the opening round of the 2018 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship, the event in the UAE will see Pablo Quintanilla begin the defense of his FIM Cross-Country World Championship title. Securing eighth overall at the 2018 Dakar Rally in January, the Chilean rally star is already looking forward to a solid return to racing aboard his FR 450 Rally machine.

Successfully wrapping up his debut participation at the prestigious Dakar Rally with a top 20 result, Andrew Short has been recuperating from a fractured tibia and fibula on his lower right leg. Resuming his training sessions in the middle of March, the American has his eyes set on making a return to racing at the Merzouga Rally on April 15/20, in the dunes of Morocco.

Celebrating its 28th edition in 2018, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is a six-stage-long rally taking place in the southern part of the United Arab Emirates. Kicking off with the traditional Super Special Stage on Saturday, March 24, the event will continue with five more days of racing in the Liwa Desert before competitors reach the finish line inside the Yas Marina circuit on March 29, 2018.

Pablo Quintanilla: “Abu Dhabi will be our first race after the Dakar and I’m really looking forward to it. It’d be good to start the season carrying the #1 plate on my Husqvarna as the reigning champion. With it being the first race for the new season, it is important for everybody. My goal is to get a good race pace from the beginning in order to be inside the group of leading riders. The season will be long and my plan is to continue improving my pace as the racing goes on. I want to get back my racing speed and also remain strong throughout the event in Abu Dhabi. Taking place in deep sandy dunes, the Desert Challenge is always a tough event and it is also highly probable that we will have to race in high temperatures. It’s going to be a challenge but I’m looking forward to it.”

The post Pablo Quintanilla Set To Kick Off Rally Season at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

The Dubai International Baja, being organised by Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of ATCUAE, and his team has the honour of opening the FIM Cross-Country Baja World Cup season.

Starting on Wednesday, March 7th, the Dubai Autodrome will welcome competitors and their teams for administrative and technical checks. Located in Dubai’s Motor City, the Autodrome’s modern infrastructure has offered an excellent solution to also accommodate Rally HQ, the Service Park and Parc Fermé over the race weekend. This will be the nerve centre of the Dubai International Baja.

With two days of administrative and technical checks completed, 27 motorbikes and quads will have the privilege of crossing the start podium, which is also located in the circuit, where they will receive the hand of Mohammed Ben Sulayem and the signal to start the race.

On Friday, March 9, competitors permitted to start the Dubai International Baja will take an early 50km road section to the Al Qudra Desert and the start of the 173km special across varied terrain composed of small and large dunes, as well as sabkhas. A second special of 173km will be staged on before the chequered flag is raised back at the Dubai Autodrome.

Mohammed Al-Balooshi, the multiple Arab Motocross Champion, is one of the favorites to take the win. The amicable Emirati finished on the third step of the podium at the 2017 Dubai International Baja. 

The KTM rider said: “I was very happy with this third place last year but, this time, I start with the intention of improving my performance. I am a passionate rider, the race is my life and I am looking forward to the start of this first round of the FIM Cross-Country Bajas World Cup. I worked very hard during the last year and now is the time to reap the benefits.” 

“I do not want to think about who I have to fight. I run to improve my technique and my performance. My goal is to be good enough to beat others. For me, it’s always about evolving as a rider.”
Balooshi Racing’s KTM UAE Team has other contenders for the podium or at least the top of the rankings: the Kuwaiti Mohammed Jaffar and Sultan Al Balooshi, the younger brother of Mohammed, plus Abdulla Shatti, who also hails from Kuwait. 

In the quad category, the Russian rider Aleksandr Maksimov will be keen to lead his Yamaha Raptor to the top step of the podium.

The post Dubai International Baja Launches FIM Cross-Country Bajas World Cup appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

The Torrot Company has made it possible for GasGas to return to the toughest rally raid in the world, the 2018 Dakar Rally, which will be racing through Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. After two years of absence, the GasGas Rally Team is ready to participate in the next edition of the rally with a competitive team including Jonathan Barragán, Johnny Aubert and Cristian España, and directed by the experienced Giovanni Sala, as Rally Team Manager.

After having competed four times in the prestigious endurance race -from 2012 to 2015-, GasGas returns to the Dakar with an ambitious project to face the greatest off-road challenge. Therefore, GasGas has chosen to provide their Dakar bikes with KTM engines, the best option that exists to dispute that race.

“It’s a question of pride to return to a historic brand such as GasGas to the world elite of motorcycling with its participation in a rally with the demands of the Dakar. This is the confirmation that we have managed to turn around the Company situation and position it again as a world leader in off-road motorcycling “, affirms the CEO of Torrot, Iván Contreras.” Our expectation this year is to race again in this type of competition to have greater aspirations in the near future” he added.

Johnny Aubert returns to the Dakar after having participated in the 2012 edition. The double world enduro champion will be accompanied by the Spanish rider Jonathan Barragán, who is making his debut in this mythical race together with the Andorran rider Cristian España, participating for the third time in the Dakar after winning the Marathon category last year and finishing 21st in the general standings.

The GasGas Rally Team is looking forward to its return to the Dakar, starting on Saturday, January 6th in Lima, the capital of Peru and ending on Saturday, January 20th in Cordoba, Argentina. Barragán, Aubert and España will compete throughout the 14 stages -with one day of rest-, to complete more than 8,000 kilometres (4,234 of them special) and race through three countries of the South American continent: Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. This year’s will be the 40th edition of the most emblematic off-road event.

GIOVANNI SALA: “All our riders have exceptional driving technique and great experience. Aubert and España have already participated in the Dakar, and for Barragán this will mean his debut, although it will be his second rally. The team has a very good feeling of camaraderie, something essential to face a ‘marathon’ as long as the Dakar. This 40th anniversary edition has been designed to return to the classic difficulties of this race, a challenging route with many kilometres among dunes and on sand, and with 2 stages without assistance. At a mechanical level, this experience will allow us to transmit our feelings to GasGas engineers, who in turn can reflect this in the bikes we offer our customers. The first goal is for our three bikes to finish this demanding race. Then the challenge will be to get back to the ‘top ten’ of the final classification.”

JONATHAN BARRAGÁN: “The Dakar has always been a dream for me. It’s an attractive but complicated challenge, because it’s two weeks long and I’ve never spent a fortnight racing on a motorcycle. Despite this, I believe that the time has come and we are ready to accept the opportunity that Torrot has given us. I still have to get into the swing of the race, because this will be my first time competing. I know it will be a very hard rally and my goal is not to make big navigation mistakes, take care of the mechanics and avoid falls. We make a great team together with Johnny [Aubert] and Cristian [España], and I am sure that Giovanni Sala’s experience in the Dakar will be of great help to us. This is our first Dakar as a team; our goal is to complete each stage and have our three bikes finish the race, which would mean we have done a great job.”

JOHNNY AUBERT: “The Dakar has always been my dream. I already raced in the Dakar in 2012, but I was left with the feeling that I could demonstrate much more. That’s why I’m happy to be at the start of this magical race thanks to Torrot. I’m doing it with a very special team and brand, with a long tradition in ‘off-road’ and with important objectives to achieve. Our team is made up of passionately enthusiastic people, starting with Gio Sala, who I know from the Enduro World Championship, Jordi Arilla, Josep María Giralt and Jordi Grau amongst others. I know that the coming Dakar will be long, intense and exciting. I’m still improving in the navigation section and I know I have to be patient; each day will be a step forward. My goal as a rider is the same as that of the team: I want to do everything possible to prove that GasGas is back. I want my bike to reach the end, along with those of my two companions.”

CRISTIAN ESPAÑA: “The call from GasGas was a surprise. After the good results of the last few years, I knew that something like this could happen, but the truth is that it took me by surprise. We met, I was presented with the project and… I simply loved it! I am very happy to have signed up with a great brand like Torrot. I feel fortunate being a part of the official GasGas team, surrounded by people who are great professionals. I am very motivated to face this new challenge in my sporting career. I have shown that I am a fast rider and that I can bring a lot of experience to the team, both on a personal level and as a navigator. We are leaving for the Dakar with a very clear premise, finish and help in every way so our three bikes to reach the end, in Cordoba.”

The post GasGas Announces 2018 Dakar Rally Factory Team appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

The Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team of Adrien Van Beveren, Xavier de Soultrait, Franco Caimi and Rodney Faggotter are all-set for the most demanding challenge on the annual rally calendar – the 2018 Dakar Rally held this year in Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. In what’s expected to be the toughest Dakar in recent years, the Yamaha Racing quartet will be proudly carrying a special Ténéré 700 World Raid livery on their WR450F Rally machines.

Under the guidance of team director Alexandre Kowalski, team manager José Leloir and highly-experienced sport manager Jordi Arcarons the quartet of Yamalube Yamaha riders head to South America looking to improve on last year’s highly positive performances. Their ultimate goal is to challenge for the podium and successfully complete the hugely demanding event.

Following a stellar performance in 2017, which saw him end his 2017 Dakar Rally adventure fourth and less than one-minute behind a potential podium result, Adrien Van Beveren is looking to finish even higher in 2018. Building his speed following injury early on during the 2017 season, the Frenchman is now at the top of his game and ready to do battle in South America.

“I’m super happy with the way things are at the moment,” Van Beveren said. “My training and preparation have been great, and to be honest I’ve never felt so strong. I did lots of moto riding during the last couple of months, together with an intense program of physical preparation. I won’t stop, and my training will go on until the moment I get on the plane to Peru. I’m happy I had no issues and remained 100-percent healthy. I’m also happy I got to spend lots of time training on the rally bike. As an athlete, I always want to take things step-by-step and this is exactly what I did in 2017. I got back from my injury even stronger mentally, and now I believe I am strong enough to win the Dakar. This might just be my third year, but if all goes well I know I have what it takes to bring home the win. At the same time, I really want to do even better this year. It is going to be a long and tough two weeks, with no easy stages to recover. The key is to remain consistent and keep pushing as much as I can.”

Making a strong statement throughout 2017 following his Merzouga Rally victory and top three result at the Desafio Ruta 40, Xavier de Soultrait has demonstrated he has what it takes to battle on equal terms with the rally elite. Completing more than 20,000 kilometers of racing during the 2017 season, the Frenchman will be a strong asset for the Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team at the upcoming Dakar.

“We’re heading to Peru in a month and I’m 100-percent ready for the challenge,” de Soultrait said. “I’ve had a good season of racing and also spent time training in Spain and Morocco. We did some long days of navigation training and lots of riding in deep sand. I’ve done more than 22,000 kilometers of rally racing and navigation training in 2017, and this has helped a lot. I feel that all is in the right place at the moment, and honestly it’s the first time in my career that I feel that way. The new bike is awesome, and within the team we have the right people to do each job. I want to give it 100 percent at the next Dakar. I am aiming for a strong start, and then I will try to keep the momentum going. I’ve had some great stage and race results during the season, so all the pieces of the puzzle are there for me to battle for the top next January.”

Demonstrating impressive speed in his first event aboard the WR450F Rally, team rookie Franco Caimi wrapped up the 2017 Merzouga Rally with an impressive third place overall result. Winning stages and continuing to improve during the season, the young Argentinean will be pushing for stage victories at the 2018 Dakar Rally while gaining further rally racing experience.

“I’m really looking forward to the Dakar,” Caimi said. “I was happy get my rally machine over in Argentina a bit more than a month ago, so I immediately started training on it. Spending time on the rally bike helped me improve my speed and also my technical knowledge on the bike. I managed to adapt even more, and now I am confident and happy to head to Peru in January. For me the special ingredient for the 2018 Dakar will be the sandy stages in Peru. Then there’s also the Marathon stage in Argentina, and this is also going to be a big challenge. Navigation will once again be key. I would be happy with a top five overall result, but obviously the final podium is the ultimate goal for me.”

The Yamalube Yamaha Official Rally Team is completed by Rodney Faggoter. Entering his second Dakar Rally aboard WR450F Rally machinery, the Australian is looking to make the most of his experience and mechanical aptitude to assist the team and get as close to the top five as possible.

“I can’t wait for the 2018 Dakar to begin,” Faggoter said. “Following my wrist injury at the Baja Inka, I gave my body some time to properly recover. The last couple of months everything has been coming together, and I’ve been focusing all my efforts into my training and preparation for South America. It’s been quite warm in Australia, and I think this will be an advantage for me in the dune stages of Peru. I’m expecting the first week to be really tough physically, and in terms of navigation. The quicker you get through the tough moments, the better it will be. Navigation will be paramount throughout the event, I believe. I want to have a good clean run and do my race. If it all goes well, I am confident of a top-10 overall result, and I know I could even do battle for the top five. I want to be there for my teammates when and if they need me and also make sure that I do my own race.”

Honoring the imminent return of one of the most successful motorcycles ever, the team’s four WR450F Rally machines will be proudly wearing the Ténéré 700 World Raid name and graphics throughout the 2018 Dakar Rally.

Yamaha Italy-supported Alessandro Botturi and highly experienced racer Camelia Liparoti will further strengthen the brand’s presence at the 2018 Dakar Rally. With Botturi entering his seventh Dakar Rally next January, Liparoti will make a debut appearance in the SSV class in Yamaha’s YXZ1000R side-by-side machine.

Including seven 100-percent off-piste stages and five stages at an altitude of more than 3000 meters, this 40^th edition of the Dakar Rally is expected to be one of the most demanding in recent history. Kicking off in Lima, Peru on January 6, 2018, competitors will have to contest 4500 kilometers of timed special plus another 4500 kilometers of liaison sections on their way toward the finish line. The big finish of the 2018 Dakar Rally will take place in Córdoba, Argentina, on January 20.

The post Yamalube Yamaha 2018 Dakar Rally Preview appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Husqvarna Motorcycles are proud to confirm their official rider line-up for the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna 2018 Dakar Rally team. Following an impressive season, FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Champion Pablo Quintanilla will be joined by Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team partner Andrew Short, with the duo set to tackle the two-week-long adventure aboard the all-new FR 450 Rally.

Making history for Husqvarna Motorcycles by successfully defending his Rallies World Championship title at the series finale in Morocco, Pablo Quintanilla will be launching an attack for the top step of the podium at the 2018 Dakar Rally, in January. Less than 50 days before the start of the big event in Lima, Peru, the Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing rally star is confident of a strong performance in the dunes and endless offroad trails of South America.

“I’m really looking forward to the coming Dakar,” Quintanilla said. “It’s been a really good season for me, I’m really motivated to do well at the biggest race of the year. We’ve all worked hard to improve in every little aspect and I’m really confident in my team and what I’m capable of. The key of the race for me is to know when to push and when to ride cautiously. This is something that comes with experience and it takes time to understand when it’s the right moment to attack a stage. We’ve also made a big step forward with the new FR 450 Rally. The updated bike is much lighter, easier to handle and gives you an impressive feeling of safety when going fast. We’ve been working hard to develop this machine for two years and I’m really satisfied with the end result. I enjoy racing it and I’m confident that with this bike and such a strong team we can fight for victory in January.”

Enjoying a steady debut aboard the FR 450 Rally at the final round of the 2017 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship in Morocco, Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing’s Andrew Short is all-set for his first Dakar. Enjoying several busy months of testing and training, the acclaimed US racer will be a strong asset for the 2018 Rockstar Energy Husqvarna Factory Racing team this January. Focused on gathering further rally experience Andrew will be looking for a strong and mistake-free performance all the way to the finish line in Córdoba, Argentina.

“I’m really excited to be heading towards my first Dakar,” Short said. “The team gave me an awesome opportunity to take a step forward in my career and I can’t thank them enough for that. The Morocco Rally was a big learning experience for me and since then I’ve not stopped working. We’ve also had some good days of testing and navigation training with Pablo and it was a blast. For my first Dakar in January the main goal is to avoid mistakes and continue improving my skills in navigation. One of the most exciting things with rally racing is the fact that you’re in the zone the whole time. Since you never know what’s around the next turn, the whole experience turns into one big adventure. It’s a good feeling and something I’m addicted to now. I want to take little steps and get better with the goal to continue improving my speed and finish my first Dakar without any issues.”

Competing as teammate to Pablo Quintanilla during 2017, Frenchman Pela Renet continues to make progress as he recovers from the injuries sustained during the Atacama Rally in August. Requiring surgery on his neck and left shoulder, two-time Enduro World Champion Renet is focused on making the best recovery possible.

Taking place January 6 to 20 in Peru, Bolivia and Argentina, the 2018 Dakar Rally will be a special event for many reasons. Including more than 5000 kilometers of timed specials and with a total distance of almost 9.000km to be run by all competitors, it will be the 40th edition of the prestigious annual event and the 10th time the race takes place in South America. To make things ever more interesting race organisers have included an impressive seven 100% of-froad stages to be contested in the massive dunes and off-road sections of the three South American countries.

The post Rockstar Energy Husqvarna 2018 Dakar Rally Team Confirmed appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

BAJA RALLY 2018
October 8-13, 2018
Presented by RALLY COMP

*Entry period opens December 1
*Pre-season discounts available to first 20 entrants in December 
*Returning racers save 40% off standard entries in December 
*2018 Championship points combined with Coast to Coast Rally
*Addition of Unsupported Malle Moto & Quad Pro Categories
*8 Categories Total;Racers competing for 22 Trophies 
*Scholarship Credits Applied for BAJA RALLY School 

ENSENADA BAJA CA MEXICO- Bajarallymoto.com and RALLY COMP have announced plans for a sixth consecutive edition its multi-day navigation rally-raid competition in the Mexican State of Baja CA next October 8-13, 2018.  Continuing in partnership with Rally Playero Entertainment’s Coast to Coast Rally 2018, BAJA RALLY LLC  and RALLY COMP also confirmed the perpetuity of the Mexican National Cross Country Championship for 2018.  
 

RETURNING RACERS SAVE 40% 
Planning ahead pays off in many ways. Returning racers who have started any prior BAJA RALLY event or graduated from BAJA RALLY SCHOOL automatically save 40% ($1,430) off a standard motorbike entry if they apply to enter BAJA RALLY 2018 in December 2017. Standard, first time motorbike racers pay $3,515 beginning April 1. Returning racers pay only $2,085 in December only. 

MALLE MOTO CATEGORY (unsupported) 
The newly updated website revealed the addition of the Malle Moto category which will be co-managed by the notable adventure tour operator Juan Carlos Pacheco and BAJA VOYAGER. Riders will not receive any mechanical support and will have 2 gear boxes and spare wheels transported to each bivouac. It’s one of the best ways to make an already challenging rally even harder to complete. 
Download Malle Moto Guidelines HERE

TRAINING SCHOLARSHIPS
BAJA RALLY SCHOOL, the 3-day training academy and school program that also serves as a qualifying event for entry to BAJA RALLY, is giving a $500 scholarship credit to ANY BAJA RALLY 2018 entrant as of January 15th. Any entrant wishing to take the 3-day BAJA RALLY school between December 2017 and June 2018 will be eligible (space is limited).  
 

8 CATEGORIES COMPETING FOR 22 TROPHIES

*Limited to 4-stroke, 2-wheel motorbikes and 4-wheel quads with 250cc – 800cc displacement

PROFESSIONAL CATEGORIES
RALLY PRO- Open Category
UTV PRO- Open Category
ADV PRO- Invitation Only or by petition; *exemption of displacement limitQUAD PRO- Open Category

AMATEUR CATEGORIES
RALLY 1- Amateurs limited to criteria in Rule 1.5 Categories
ROOKIE- Amateurs maiden start in a sanctioned rally competition
SENIOR- Amateurs 55+ years of age as of start date limited to criteria in Rule 1.5 Categories
MALLE MOTO- Open Category; unsupported motorbikes, quads and ADV; 1 trophy awarded.

REQUIREMENTS:
RALLY COMP REQUIREMENT
SATELLITE PHONE REQUIREMENT
SPOT TRACKER REQUIREMENT
RULEBOOK

INCLUDED IN ENTRY:
*5 ROADBOOKS (CONTINUOUS ROLL)
​*RALLY COMP METERING DEVICE,
SERVICE AND POWER CABLE FITTING
*9 MEALS IN REMOTE BIVOUACS
INCLUDING AWARDS CEREMONY DINNER
*LIVE PUBLIC TRACKING
*NUMBER BACKINGS LAMINATED, PERSONALIZED 
*PERSONALIZED PHOTO ID
*SERIAL NUMBERED ID BRACELET
***FUEL COSTS NOT INCLUDED IN 2018

ENTRY FEES:

PRE-SEASON-FIRST CALL
LIMITED TO FIRST 20 
OPEN DECEMBER 1- DECEMBER 31
MOTORBIKES:                                         $2,415
RETURNING MOTORBIKES:                  $2,085
UTV PRO                                                   $3,515
​RETURNING UTV PRO                            $3,185

FIRST QUARTER DISCOUNTED
OPEN JANUARY 1 – MARCH 31
MOTORBIKES:                                         $2,695
RETURNING MOTORBIKES:                  $2,435
UTV PRO                                                   $4,065
​RETURNING UTV PRO                            $3,735

STANDARD ENTRY PRICING 
OPEN APRIL 1 – AUGUST 31
MOTORBIKES:                                         $3,515
RETURNING MOTORBIKES:                  $2,745
UTV PRO                                                   $4,615
​RETURNING UTV PRO                           $3,845

LATE ENTRY PRICING PERIOD
OPEN SEPT 1- SEPT 30, 2018 
LIMITED TO AVAILABILITY 
MOTORBIKES:                                         $4,395
RETURNING MOTORBIKES:                  $3,845
UTV PRO                                                   $5,495
​RETURNING UTV PRO                            $4,945

2018 RULEBOOK
NEWS
RESULTS 2017
PHOTO GALLERIES
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS AND ARCHIVES
UTV PRO
ADV PRO 
MALLE MOTO
BAJA RALLY SCHOOL
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES 

ABOUT BAJA RALLY
The BAJA RALLY is the first ever road-book navigation rally raid for motorcycles and UTV’s hosted by the Mexican State of Baja CA. As the fastest-growing event of its kind, the BAJA RALLY remains focused on the 3 goals of safely growing the ecologically friendly sport of navigation rally while bringing cultural and historical education to participants and stimulating return visits be eco-tourism enthusiasts. Visit OUR WEBSITE at www.bajarallymoto.com
 

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE HERE

The post Baja Rally 2018 Dates Announced appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Following a European release early next year, both models will be available in the U.S. in summer of 2018. Suggested retail price for the Adventure Sports model is approximately $2000 higher than that of the current Africa Twin.

Displayed previously in concept form, and developed as a powerful extension of the “True Adventure” mantra that drives the Africa Twin platform, the new Adventure Sports version features increased suspension travel, added ground clearance, enhanced creature comforts and a larger fuel tank for extended range. Both the Adventure Sports and the standard Africa Twin feature a long list of updates to the engine, electronics, and rider interface, while continuing to offer an ideal balance of power and light weight.

“The Africa Twin’s success on showroom floors and in comparison tests is evidence of the platform’s profound capabilities, but the Adventure Sports model expands the possibilities by making it possible to ride further and more comfortably,” said Lee Edmunds, American Honda’s Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications. “We’ve enjoyed seeing our customers put their own interpretations on the Africa Twin’s ‘True Adventure’ ethos, and with the increased capabilities of the new Adventure Sports, as well as those of the updated standard Africa Twin, we expect that spirit will be applied in new and exciting ways.”

COLORS
CRF1000L2 Africa Twin Adventure Sports: White/Blue/Red
CRF1000L Africa Twin: TBA
Availability: Summer 2018

KEY FEATURES
-The Africa Twin Adventure Sports has a larger fairing matched with an 80mm taller screen to offer greater wind protection, and comes standard with heated grips and a 12 volt accessory socket, facilitating longer tours in wide-ranging conditions

-The Adventure Sports model comes standard with larger sump guard and front light bars, as well as brushed-aluminum cowling panels, rear mudguard, and easily removable steel rack

-The Adventure Sports model has larger, 6.37-gallon fuel tank (compared to 4.97 gallons on the standard model), extending range

-Both CRF1000L Africa Twin models now have auto-canceling turn indicators

-The Adventure Sports model’s seat features a flatter profile and a 1.2-inch-taller height than standard model. The seat adjusts .8 inches, for a seat height of either 35.4 inches or 36.2 inches (compared to 33.5 inches and 34.3 inches). Handlebar position is 1.3 inches higher and .2 inches rearward compared to the standard version

-The Adventure Sports model has a storage pocket on rear right.

-On both models, the rider’s foot pegs are now wider and affixed via stouter steel mounting plates, whereas the passenger foot-peg hangers have been redesigned to allow more room for the rider’s feet when standing.

-On both models, instruments are positioned at a shallower angle to allow the rider to see them more easily from a standing position.

-The Adventure Sports model has updated, longer-travel Showa suspension, resulting in 10.6 inches of ground clearance (compared to 9.8 inches). On both models, shock preload, rebound damping, and compression damping are fully adjustable.

-Both models have compact two-piece, radial-mount, four-piston front-brake calipers and “wave” floating rotors front and rear. The lightweight two-channel ABS can be turned off at the rear.

-Both models feature front and rear wheels in size 21 and 18 inches, respectively, with stainless-steel spokes for improved durability

-On both models, the 998cc SOHC eight-valve parallel-twin engine is updated with a new airbox, now featuring a 20mm longer funnel length and matched to redesigned exhaust internals that significantly improve midrange response and sound quality.

-On both models, the engine’s balancer-shaft weights have been lightened by 10.6 ounces for added character and feel in power delivery
-The water pump is housed within the clutch casing, with a thermostat integrated into the cylinder head, while water and oil pumps are driven by the engine’s balancer shafts, contributing to a compact engine and optimum ground clearance.

-New for 2018, a lithium-ion battery is 5.1 lbs. lighter than the previous lead-acid unit.

-Both versions available with Honda’s advanced automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), delivering consistent, quick, seamless gear changes on-road or off. Rider can select from three different shifting modes, and a G switch enhances off-road functionality by reducing the amount of clutch slip during gear changes

-New for 2018, both Africa Twin models have Throttle-By-Wire system (TBW), opening the door to four individual riding modes and an expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system

-HSTC now features seven levels (up from three), to adapt to a wide variety of conditions. HSTC can also be completely switched off, and three levels of power and engine braking are available.

DESIGN
The Africa Twin Adventure Sports’ styling is less minimalist than that of the Africa Twin; the dual headlights are shared but the new model has a larger fairing matched with an 80mm taller screen to offer greater wind protection. It also comes standard with heated grips and a 12V accessory socket, facilitating longer tours in wide-ranging conditions.

The Adventure Sports model comes standard with a larger sump guard and front light bars. Brushed-aluminum cowling panels add tough appeal and class to this adventure-ready machine, while the rear mudguard and steel rack can be easily removed. Aluminum side cases are available, as is an aluminum top box with mounting equipment specific to the CRF1000L2 Africa Twin Adventure Sports. Thanks to a 1.4-gallon larger, 6.37-gallon fuel tank (compared to 4.97 gallons on the standard model), range for the Adventure Sports model is extended.

On both Africa Twin models, the turn indicators now auto-cancel. Rather than using a simple timer, the system detects differences in front and rear wheel speed and calculates when to cancel the indication relative to the situation.

ERGONOMICS
For extended off-road use, the Adventure Sports’ seat features a flatter profile, and seat height is 1.2 inches higher than the standard model. The seat adjusts .8 inches, for a seat height of either 35.4 inches or 36.2 inches (compared to 33.5 inches and 34.3 inches); there’s also a rear storage pocket tucked away on the right side. To match the raised seat height, the handlebar position is 1.3 inches higher and .2 inches further back than that of the standard model, resulting in a more upright riding position.

On both CRF1000L Africa Twin models, the rider’s foot pegs are now wider and affixed via beefed-up steel mounting plates. The passenger foot-peg hangers have been redesigned to allow more room for the rider’s feet when standing, and the instruments are positioned at a shallower angle to allow the rider to see them more easily from a standing position. These updates benefit riders in off-road situations, an area where the tractable Africa Twin already stands out thanks to its user-friendly performance and size.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
The 2018 Africa Twin and Africa Twin Adventure Sports share a steel semi-double-cradle frame that provides nimble on-road manners plus stable high-speed characteristics, as well as genuine off-road capability. Thanks to updated Showa suspension, the Adventure Sports offers 10.6 inches of ground clearance (.8 inches more than the Africa Twin). Each has a wheelbase of 61.2 inches, and rake/trail figures of 27.5°/4.5 inches. Curb weight for the Adventure Sports is 533 pounds (556 pounds DCT), while the standard model weighs in at 507 lbs. (529 pounds DCT).

The Adventure Sports’ updated 45mm Showa cartridge-type inverted fork has 8.9 inches of suspension stroke (up .9 inches from the standard Africa Twin), offering excellent long-travel performance. At the Adventure Sports’ rear, a similarly revised Showa shock delivers 9.4 inches of travel, up .8 inches.

On both models, the shock has a low upper mount for mass centralization, and it features a 46mm remote reservoir for stable damping control under more extreme off-road conditions. Spring preload can be adjusted via a dial on the shock body; rebound and compression damping are also fully adjustable.

Compact two-piece, radial-mount, four-piston calipers work dual 310mm “wave” floating rotors through sintered pads and serve up consistent stopping power and feel on-road or off. The rear rotor has a diameter of 256mm and also features a “wave” design. The lightweight two-channel ABS can be turned off at the rear.

True to their off-road heritage, the Africa Twin models feature spoke front and rear wheels in size 21 and 18 inches, respectively, wearing 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 tires. The spokes are manufactured in stainless steel for improved durability and ease of care.

ENGINE
The 998cc SOHC eight-valve parallel-twin engine used in both Africa Twin models is updated with a new airbox, now featuring a 20mm longer funnel and matched to redesigned exhaust internals that significantly improve midrange response and sound quality. The two-into-one downpipe now feeds exhaust through two catalyzers (up from one) into a simplified, smaller-volume muffler (4 liters instead of 4.6) that houses two chambers rather three.

Bore and stroke are set at 92 x 75.1mm, with a compression ratio of 10.0:1; the 270° phased crankshaft and uneven firing interval create the engine’s distinctive throb and feel for rear-wheel traction.

For 2018, the engine’s balancer-shaft weights have been lightened by 10.6 ounces for added character and feel in power delivery. As was the case before, the crankcases are split vertically; the water pump is housed within the clutch casing, with a thermostat integrated into the cylinder head. The water and oil pumps are driven by the engine’s balancer shafts. These features contribute to the engine being compact and short, and to optimum ground clearance, a crucial element to off-road performance.

Four-valve cylinder heads, fed by PGM-FI fuel injection, each employ twin spark plugs and dual and sequential ignition control for even combustion. Honda’s SOHC Unicam® valve train is a feature of the CRF450R and the low-set position of the cast camshaft contributes to the compact nature of the cylinder head. The inlet valves are 36.5mm in diameter, whereas the exhaust valves are 31mm.

The engine uses a semi-dry sump and in-tank lower-crankcase oil storage, allowing a shallow pan depth and reducing overall engine height. As the pressure-fed pump is located within the oil tank, there is no need for a pressure-feed passage, again saving weight and space.

Secondary vibrations are neutralized by the mutually reciprocating motion of the pistons, while primary inertial and coupling vibrations are cancelled by the use of biaxial balance shafts. The front balancer shaft uses two weights, the rear only a single weight.

On the manual-transmission versions, the aluminum clutch center and pressure plate use “assist” cams to ease shifting (with light lever feel) and “slipper” cams for deceleration and downshifting. Oil-gathering ribs on the main journal side of the primary gear ensure consistent lubrication for the gear, damper spring, and primary sub-gear. The lightweight six-speed manual gearbox uses the same shift-cam design as found on the CRF450R to ensure positive changes.

New for 2018, a lithium-ion battery is 5.1 lbs. lighter than the lead-acid unit of the 2017 Africa Twin and offers greater longevity, both in terms of life and the ability to retain a charge.

An optional quick-shifter is available.

DCT
Honda’s advanced automatic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) delivers consistent, rapid, seamless gear changes, and very quickly becomes second nature to use. It utilizes two clutches—one for startup and first, third, and fifth gears, the other for second, fourth, and sixth, with the main shaft for one clutch located inside that of the other.

Each clutch is independently controlled by its own electro-hydraulic circuit. When a gear change occurs, the system pre-selects the target gear through the clutch not currently in use. The first clutch is then electronically disengaged as the second clutch simultaneously engages. As the twin clutches transfer drive from one gear to the next with minimal interruption to rear-wheel drive, gear-change shock and pitching of the machine are minimized, resulting in shifts that are not only smooth, but direct.

The extra benefits of durability (as the gears cannot be damaged by missing a shift), impossibility of stalling, low-stress urban riding, and reduced rider fatigue add to the appeal of DCT.

Three modes of gear-change operation are available. Manual mode gives full manual control, allowing the rider to shift with the handlebar triggers. Automatic Drive mode is ideal for city and highway riding, and achieves optimum fuel efficiency. Automatic Sport mode offers three levels of sportier riding, as the ECU lets the engine rev a little higher before shifting up, and shifts down sooner when decelerating, for extra engine braking.

In either Drive or Sport mode, immediate manual intervention is possible; the rider simply selects the required gear using the up and down shift triggers on the left side of the handlebar. After an appropriate interval (depending on throttle angle, vehicle speed, and gear position), the DCT seamlessly reverts back to automatic mode.

The Africa Twin models’ DCT is also fully equipped to operate in an adventure environment, with off-road functionality enhanced by the G switch positioned on the right side of the instrument panel. In any riding mode, pushing the G switch reduces the amount of clutch slip during gear changes.

Further functionality for the DCT system comes in the form of incline detection, adapting the gear-shift pattern depending on the grade of an incline.

TECHNOLOGY
For 2018, the entire Africa Twin platform is updated by way of a Throttle By Wire (TBW) system that opens the door to four individual riding modes and an expanded Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system. The use of TBW greatly expands the choices available to the rider to manage engine output, feel, and rear-wheel traction. Whereas the 2017 Africa Twin had three levels of HSTC, plus OFF, the new system features seven levels—from Level 1, for aggressive riding off-road on block-pattern tires, to Level 7, for maximum sense of security on slippery, wet tarmac. It is still possible to turn HSTC completely off, and there are also three levels of power and engine braking available.

In a setup first used on the RC213V-S—the street-legal version of Honda’s MotoGP racer—three riding modes offer preset combinations of each parameter, suitable to different riding environments and scenarios:

TOUR mode employs the lowest Power (1), medium Engine Braking (2), and high HSTC (6).

URBAN mode uses mid-level Power (2) and Engine Braking (2), and high HSTC (6).

GRAVEL mode allows maximum Power (3) and Engine Braking (1), with high HSTC (6).

A fourth mode—USER—allows the rider to set and save his or her preferred combination of Power, engine braking, and HSTC levels. Riding mode and HSTC level can be changed at any time using the controls on the left switchgear.

HONDA ACCESSORIES
A full range of genuine Honda accessories is available for the CRF1000L2 Africa Twin Adventure Sports, including:

Touring bags
Aluminum luggage set
Rubber passenger foot pegs
DCT foot shifter
Fog lamps
Wheel stripes
Alarm system
Center stand
Sump guard
Lower and higher seats

The range of genuine Honda accessories available for the CRF1000L Africa Twin includes:

Top box and inner bags
Touring bags
Aluminum luggage set
Frame guard
Smoke windscreen
High windscreen
Upper and lower wind deflectors
Rubber passenger foot pegs
DCT foot shifter
Heated grips
12V accessory socket
Fog lamps with cowl mounting bar
Wheel stripes
Alarm system
Center stand
Sump guard
Lower and higher seats

The post 2018 Honda CRF1000L2 Africa Twin Adventure Sports appeared first on Dirt Bikes.