Racers News (from the web)

ZX-10R gets make-over

Kawasaki has released some detail on its 2006 ZX-10R which is predictably claimed to be a little lighter and faster than the current monster. The improvements to the machine are quite extensive, including a modified location for the powerplant in an effort to aid the handling, changes to the casting for the steering head, new swingarm, larger 190 section rear hoop and an Ohlins steering damper.

Suzuki returns to Peter Stevens

The Peter Stevens store in Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, has Suzuki back under its wing. Peter Stevens first started with Suzuki (some thirty-five years ago in Moorabbin) and has welcomed back one of its favourite brands back with open arms. "It's a fantastic opportunity for Peter Stevens," said Managing Director Vince Chiodo, "And one we intend to exploit to its full potential. We have always had a soft spot for Suzuki and seeing it out the front of 339 Elizabeth Street has brought back strong emotions and memories. We love Suzuki and we intend to give it, and its owners, our very best."

Complete make-over for R6: Yamaha's R6 has joined the huge number of new models due for a 2006 launch, with a long-awaited revamp. The machine claims an all-new powerplant, plus what the company says is a MotoGP-derived frame. Short, race-style mufflers seem to be all rage in styling departments and the R6 score a titanium version. There will be three colour schemes including a yellow/black 50th anniversary design. The 2006 range was unveiled recently at the Paris Motorcycle Show, which saw the release of the much-awaited R6 replacement. The new bike claims no less than 130 horses at a heady 14,500rpm (with ram-air effect), 6.93 kg-m of torque at 12,000rpm and a package weighing 161 kilos dry. Reline is 17,000!

It also has something the company calls Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T). Details are scant – could this be the first fly-by-wire throttle on a production bike? It's unclear whether the factory has risked going so radical, or whether the device is a more conventional throttle-actuated tuning enhancement.

Lighter & faster Blade: Honda's CBR1000RR Fireblade has been given more of an edge for 2006 boosted engine performance and some loss of weight. The earlier machine was widely applauded as being user friendly but struggled in the all-too-cruel stats race, something which the company has tried to address. Engine compression has been raised from 11.9:1 to 12.2:1, while the porting has also been altered. The maker claims this lifts midrange and top end performance substantially. In the weight loss department, there have been a number of refinements such as a modified exhaust system and rear subframe. Chassis geometry has also been altered subtly, while suspension and braking have also come in for attention.

Triple treat from Triumph: British maker Triumph is adding three new models to its range in the near future. The company has announced a new Rocket III variant called the Classic, a Bonneville Scrambler, plus its worst-kept secret, the 675 Daytona Triple. The Classic is very much focussed on long-haul two-up comfort, with new seating, footboards plus a different finish for the powerplant. The Bonneville Scrambler is a throwback to the sixties when such machines were popular, particularly in the USA market. Meanwhile the Daytona 675 is confirmation of the company's declaration that it want to concentrate on triples and twins. In theory this machine will have all the midrange the 600 fours lacked and is more in keeping with the brand's image. The machines were unveiled at an international dealer meeting in the USA in mid-September.

Troy Corser has taken out the 2005 World Superbike Championship nine years after he won his first world crown in 1996. His triumph gives Suzuki its first Superbike championship in the 17 years the series has been run. Also, it is the first time any other manufacturer other than Honda or Ducati has won the tiitle since 1993. Corser went into the last round at Imola late Sunday evening (Melbourne time) with a handy lead over his closest pursuer Chris Vermeulen, another Australian. Vermeulen won the first race but the second was cancelled due to running water across the track after a heavy rain storm, handing the championship to Corser with one round to go at Magny Cours this weekend.

Vermuelen will deputise for the injured Bayliss in the last three rounds of the MotoGP, starting at Phillip Island in the Australian Grand Prix in two weeks.

2006 Gixxer released: Suzuki's 2006 GSX-R1000 is now available, boasting new colour schemes, including a matt black variant. The company is keen to remind you that the 166-kilo machine has just clinched yet another AMA superbike title in the hands of Aussie Matt Mladin, while local rider Shawn Giles looks like locking up the OZ title on his version. Price is $18,950.